Stories for March 2007

Gillispie nets new contract

Texas A&M’s Billy Gillispie has agreed to a new contract that makes him one of the highest-paid coaches in the Big 12.

Commentary: Big names abound at Final Four

Gonzaga was always a good story about the little college that could, until George Mason came along and made it even better. There’s nothing like a spirited underdog in the NCAA Tournament to remind us of simpler times when players enrolled for four years and anything seemed possible.

Stuckey feels good

KU safety finally fully recovered from nagging ankle injury

Darrell Stuckey did make it onto the field last year. But not quite like this.

Durant, Bennett honored by AP

A couple of rookies swept the national college basketball awards.

UF, OSU have edge at line

Gators, Buckeyes most experienced foul shooters

National championship on the line. Two free throws, one-point deficit, three seconds left. Who do you want to take the shots?

Keegan: Keegan: Ratings hold up quite well

Autumn of 1977. Introduction to Journalism class at Marquette University, which, by the way, had four returning starters from a national championship team. Frank Clines teaching. He had us all read our stories out loud. After mine, he burst out laughing.

Jayhawk softball prepares for home series - a rarity this year

That’s not a typo. Kansas University’s softball team is playing at home this weekend. Really.

Back-to-back blasts lift Kansas in ninth

Juniors Erik Morrison and Ryne Price hit back-to-back home runs in the top of the ninth inning as the Kansas University baseball team rallied for a 7-5 victory over Missouri on Friday.

Baylor sweeps KU tennis team

Kansas University’s tennis squad fell to No. 16 Baylor, 7-0, Friday, dropping the Jayhawks to 4-10 overall and 2-3 in Big 12 play. The loss snapped KU’s streak of two straight conference victories.

Aldrich already embracing rivalry spirit

KU recruit had plenty of banter for future Big 12 foes during McDonald's week

Teammates at the 2007 McDonald’s All-America basketball game, Cole Aldrich and Michael Beasley will be bitter rivals next season.

Let’s get it on!

Forget Cinderella - it's the big boys' time

George Mason’s memorable run to the Final Four during last year’s NCAA Tournament captivated a nation. What people might forget is that the last three games of the season - the national semifinals and title game - were all decided by at least 14 points, making it the least competitive Final Four since the tournament field was expanded to 64 teams.

Aldrich excited about joining the Jayhawks

No is more excited about KU basketball recruit Cole Aldrich than, well Cole Aldrich. Cole has made some pretty bold predictions about next year’s squad.

With Cornish gone, KU football team looks to focus on its receivers

This year, with Cornish gone and a new offense in place, look for the KU football team to rely more on the passing game this season.

Distractions greet Gators

Defending champs arrive in Atlanta as speculation surrounds coach's future

The police escort, the fans and autograph seekers roaming the hotel - all part of a Final Four welcome to Atlanta for Florida on Thursday.

Keating, Self head to meetings

Coaches to discuss possible court changes

Bill Self won’t be the only member of Kansas University’s athletic department attending a batch of meetings Final Four weekend in Atlanta.

Receiver Henry ‘a hassle’ to defend

Take a look at Marcus Henry, and try convincing yourself he isn’t the prototypical playmaker at wide receiver.

Reports: Gillispie staying

Deal reportedly worth $2 million per year

Texas A&M appears poised to retain Billy Gillispie as men’s basketball coach and make him the highest-paid among his Big 12 peers, according to media reports in Texas.

Nebraska CB out 6 months

Ruptured tendon in knee sidelines Huskers' star cornerback

Nebraska senior cornerback Zack Bowman had surgery Thursday morning for a ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee and will be sidelined for up to six months.

Mayer: Mayer: Big 12 upturn ahead

Texas A&M could be awfully good. Same goes for Texas, particularly if Kevin Durant returns. Kansas State is expecting a big-time up-tick in basketball next season. Even Missouri and Baylor are hopeful. Kansas, with or without Brandon Rush, is fully capable of more Big 12 glory and an NCAA Final Four visit.

Ex-KU aide Jankovich makes first ISU hire

New Illinois State basketball coach Tim Jankovich has hired the first full-time member of his Redbird coaching staff.

Final Four tickets part of course

Some students may skip classes this week to attend college basketball’s Final Four, though at least a dozen have managed to score class credits out of the trip.

Pritchard named Trail Blazers’ GM

Former Kansas University basketball guard Kevin Pritchard has been named the Portland Trail Blazers’ general manager.

Story of this Final Four: No underdogs allowed

There won’t be any warm and fuzzy scenes like when Jim Valvano sprinted across the court looking for somebody to hug. You won’t see any blubbering meltdowns a la Rollie Massimino, either.

Commentary: Wait a minute : or 14:25

“Just one minute left, honey.” Those are the five most dangerous words in sports. Because when it comes to the NCAA Tournament, the clock is a crock.

KU baseball hopes to reprise Big 12 tourney success at MU

The Border War baseball games between Kansas University and Missouri University have been laden with intensity, but the rivalry escalated when the teams met for a fourth time last year during the semifinals of the Big 12 Conference tournament.

10 practices and counting until the KU football team takes the field

Head KU football coach Mark Mangino plans on simplifying the offense for his quarterbacks, among other items the team has been working on during spring training.

KU’s Brandon Rush adds another honor to his resume

The 6-6 sophomore out of Kansas City averaged nearly 14 points per game this season and was named to the Wooden All-American Team.

KU basketball recruit Cole Aldrich debuts in McDonald’s game

The McDonald’s High School All-American game isn’t the best showcase for big men, but the 6-11 Cole Aldrich still had a decent showing.

Standing tall

Big men have played big roles in four finalists' fortunes

The Final Four is big, really big, this year. With Ohio State’s Greg Oden, Georgetown’s Roy Hibbert and Florida’s Joakim Noah and Al Horford convening in Atlanta this weekend, college basketball’s signature event has become a showcase for the country’s best big men.

McClinton hopes to prove he has game

Now there’s more proof than ever video games are a big hit with college football players.

Paris named women’s All-American

Oklahoma center honored for second straight year

Courtney Paris has been the model of consistency in her college career. It’s something she learned growing up.

KU softball takes two from Missouri State

Three home runs and solid pitching carried Kansas University to a softball doubleheader sweep of Missouri State, 4-0 and 3-0, on Wednesday at the Missouri State Softball Field.

Keegan: Keegan: Happy feet bad for QBs

Every sports fan has pet peeves. Mine: pitchers who fiddle around forever between pitches, acting as if they would prefer to be anywhere but standing on a hill of dirt. Post players who have bad hands and drop passes when everything else on the offense unfolded just right.

Ryan Wood’s KU football notebook

Kansas is working under a modified offense, though it’s not a complete makeover that schools such as Baylor have undergone recently.

KU signee Aldrich so-so in showcase

Future Kansas University basketball center Cole Aldrich scored six points and grabbed eight rebounds with two blocks, one assist and three fouls in the West’s 114-112 victory over the East in Wednesday night’s McDonald’s High School All-American game in Louisville, Ky.

Mayo’s miss helps West win McDonald’s game

Michael Beasley saw O.J. Mayo pull up at the top of the key, and his heart sank.

Crashing the party

Rutgers, LSU make surprise runs to Cleveland

Half of the women’s Final Four turned out as expected, with top seeds Tennessee and North Carolina facing off in a national semifinal. From the other side of the bracket emerged two unlikely championship contenders.

KU recruit Aldrich competes in All-American game

Mario Chalmers, Julian Wright, Sherron Collins, and Darrell Arthur. That’s four McDonald’s High School All-American players that currently grace the Kansas basketball roster. Barring any leaps to the NBA, that Mickey-D number will jump to five next season.

‘Hawks focusing on defensive improvement

The Kansas football team was back on the practice field this afternoon as the Jayhawks are in the middle of 15 workouts leading up to the April 15 spring game.

No surgery for Jayhawks’ Collins

Kansas University freshman point guard Sherron Collins will not need surgery on his left knee.

Final Four’s prospects for pro play

NBA Scout picks top players draft

By the time NCAA players reach the big dance, NBA teams have been watching them at little dances for years, so any general manager who’s caught by surprise is in the wrong business.

Lady Vols roll over Rebels

Tennessee tops Mississippi 98-62

To beat Tennessee, Mississippi needed to play a nearly perfect game. Instead, Candace Parker and the Lady Vols did. With Parker dominating at both ends and the talented Lady Vols getting contributions from almost everybody else on the roster, they rolled over the Rebels and into their 17th Final Four 98-62 on Tuesday night.

Keegan: Keegan: McD’s a poor predictor

Diet pills. Nose jobs. Technology stocks. We live in a quick-fix society. We want the world, and we want it now. Shortcuts are in. Building a solid foundation takes too long, involves too much work, and really now, who wants to work? Spending all that time working leaves too little time for complaining.

Commentary: Coaching shuffle trumps tournament

What an amazing month for college basketball. The suspense! The intrigue! The upsets! But hasn’t the NCAA Tournament kind of, you know, stunk? Tournament? What tournament?

Top-seeded Tar Heels advance to Final Four

Once again, Ivory Latta was headed to the locker room way too early in a late-round NCAA tournament game, North Carolina’s hopes possibly going with her.

KU men’s golf ties for 3rd

Kansas University’s men’s golf team finished in a tie for third place Tuesday at the CU-Stevinson Ranch Invitational. The Jayhawks shot a final-round score of 312 and climbed up one spot on the leaderboard.

Missouri State waxes KU, 7-2

Leadoff man Kyle Murphy’s third home run of the season wasn’t enough.

Mid-week contests a problem for KU baseball

Midweek games have not been kind to the Kansas baseball team so far this season. Last week, between two Big 12 series, the Jayhawks split two contests against Northern Colorado and dropped two to Wichita State the Wednesday before that.

Collins’ knee will not require surgery

Kansas University freshman point guard Sherron Collins will not need surgery on his left knee. An MRI taken on Monday has revealed Collins has a severe case of patellar tendinitis, which will require rest, not surgery, coach Bill Self indicated.

Blue Monday

Self discusses loss, draft prospects

Bill Self, whose head hit the pillow at 5:30 a.m. Sunday after Kansas University’s red-eye charter flight back from San Jose, Calif., was back at work Monday morning, admittedly worn out after last weekend’s season-ending Elite Eight loss to UCLA.

Woodling: Woodling: Juco visit brings back memories

Maybe, as they say, you can’t go home again. But why can’t you go to your first home away from home?

Durant, Oden give All-America team rookie flavor

Talented freshmen joined on first team by Wisconsin's Tucker, Texas A&M's Law, UCLA's Afflalo

If Kevin Durant and Greg Oden play only one season of college basketball, it will have been as All-Americans.

Rutgers, LSU reach Final Four

Rutgers didn’t have much of a reason to believe it could be a Final Four team a few months ago.

KU golfers fourth

The Kansas University men’s golf team is tied for fourth place after two rounds of play at the CU-Stevinson Ranch Invitational.

Collins’ knee problem worse than revealed

Sherron Collins’ knee injury, which has been described as a bout of tendinitis, is worse than has been revealed the past three weeks.

Commentary: NCAA should halt coaching changes

On the morning of March 15, there were 64 NCAA Division I teams eligible to win the men’s basketball tournament. Today there are four.

Even with no graduating seniors, the Jayhawks may not have same squad returning

With the NCAA Tournament now out of the minds of most Jayhawk fans, all attention has turned to the KU players who may enter into the NBA draft.

KU players reflect on loss to UCLA

After the Jayhawks disappointing loss to UCLA in the Elite Eight round of the NCAA Tournament, Julian Wright and Mario Chalmers speak about what went wrong.

Jayhawk baseball team not off to a great start

Two series into the Big 12 baseball season and the KU baseball team finds itself 2 games under .500.

Hoyas upend Heels in OT

John Thompson III shook hands with coach Roy Williams and everyone else on the North Carolina side, never showing a smile. Tough game, good game, he told them.

KU softball sweeps OSU

The Kansas University softball team shut out the Oklahoma State Cowgirls, 2-0, Sunday to take its first league series sweep of the season.

Lack of tourney upsets is upsetting

March Madness thrives on the unexpected, not the predictable Final Four march of top seeds

The NCAA tournament as a whole has disappointed, raising a temperature that’s fallen several degrees shy of madness.

After splendid season, KU loss hard to swallow

For many Kansas University basketball fans, Saturday night’s tough season-ending NCAA Tournament loss to UCLA felt like a kick to the gut.

Keegan: Keegan: Future bright for KU

Hangovers distort vision, and the one from the unsightly loss to UCLA is a wicked one. Kansas University scored a season-low 55 points, committed 21 turnovers, and for the first time in a long time looked like a young team.

Like it or not, UF in Final Four

Go ahead, hate Florida all you want. But you can’t beat these Gators. Not in the NCAA Tournament. Not yet, anyway.

Failure to launch

Explanations elusive for offensive collapse

In what forever may remain an unsolved mystery, Kansas University’s men’s basketball offense disappeared without a trace over the weekend in California and ultimately cost the Jayhawks a spot in the Final Four.

OSU pitching stifles Jayhawks

Although Kansas University baseball coach Ritch Price spent the weekend praising the potency of the Oklahoma State University offense, the Cowboys’ pitching stymied the Jayhawks on Sunday afternoon.

Rebels too fast for Oklahoma

Paris has 31 points, 20 boards in loss

Mississippi’s frantic and frenetic defense sure bothered Courtney Paris and Oklahoma. Next up, the surprising Rebels will try to run top- seeded Tennessee out of the tournament.

This year’s Gators love the haters

Last year, Joakim Noah felt the love, becoming the intriguing, enigmatic poster boy for the champion Florida Gators. This year, Noah pleads for hate.

Starting fives power Final 4

So much for depth. Forget about 10-man rotations. Next weekend’s Final Four in Atlanta is all about team play.

Hoyas knock out Tar Heels in OT

Same names, different endings. Unlike father, like son. Twenty-five years later, Georgetown got even. In an NCAA tournament full of incredible rallies, it was the Hoyas’ turn - against North Carolina, for goodness sakes, the same Tar Heels who won the national title on a Michael Jordan jumper that denied a different Georgetown team led by a coach named Thompson and a player named Ewing a generation ago.

Jayhawks still missing clutch batting in close games

Switching gears to the diamond now where today the Kansas baseball team tried to steal a series from 14th ranked Oklahoma State at Hoglund Ballpark.

Big shots propel Bruins past Jayhawks

6Sports director Kevin Romary was at the HP Pavilion last night as a wrap up from San Jose.

KU men disappointed with loss to UCLA

If someone would have told you KU forced UCLA into a season high 25 turnovers, you’d think the Jayhawks would have a pretty good chance to win the ball game. Unfortunately, Bill Self’s squad gave it away 21 times of its own and missed 19 easy shots to see its season come to an end last night.

Mass Street quiet as fans somber after KU loss

Before we knew the outcome of last night’s game, thousands sat on the edge of their seats, hoping KU would make a return to trip to the Final Four.

Jayhawks return to Lawrence early Sunday morning

It started with a crowd of two. John Coleman and his friend, Don McCoy, both from Bonner Springs, were the first to arrive at Allen Fieldhouse at about 3:30 a.m. on Sunday morning.

(B)ruined!

KU devastated after season-ending loss

Bill Self unfastened the top button on his shirt, loosened his tie and, with an ashen face, paced ahead of his Kansas University basketball players out a tunnel toward the locker room Saturday night.

Commentary: Rush, Afflalo should cash in soon

One was almost certainly playing his last game before trading his class schedule for instant riches in the NBA. The other will play at least once more before he, too, becomes a millionaire.

Gators headed to Final Four, again

Go ahead, hate Florida all you want. But you can’t beat these Gators. Not in the NCAA tournament. Not yet, anyway. Inside, outside, early, late - the Gators find a way to get it done when there’s a title at stake. Joakim Noah and his buddies are heading back to the Final Four, looking for a second straight national championship that was worth more to them than NBA millions.

KU golfers in sixth

Freshman Emily Powers shot a second-round 72, while senior Amanda Costner carded a 73 as the Kansas University women’s golf team sits in sixth place at the MountainView Collegiate.

Dejected, yet faithful

Jayhawk fans optimistic about next year's season

Awash in a sea of fans clad in baby blue - and, more importantly, an opportunistic lineup of sharp-shooting UCLA Bruins - Kansas fans once again are headed into the offseason with a postseason loss, this time one win away from the Final Four.

Keegan: Keegan: UCLA had edge in poise

Missed the West Regional final and don’t have time to watch the entire replay? Just watch the last first-half possession for each team and you’ve seen it all.

Downtown deflated after regional-final loss

Moments after Saturday night’s Kansas University basketball game ended, Massachusetts Street suddenly clogged with honking cars.

Afflalo makes few mistakes

Snipping down the nets never gets old.

Diminutive Duck ready for next test

His twin sister, Teneea, used to dunk on him.

Oden lifts OSU to Final Four

Freshman star larger than life in win against Memphis

Ohio State coach Thad Matta looked down the bench and locked eyes with Greg Oden. The big man, sitting out with three fouls, nodded.

Rutgers wins stunner

Duke star misses tying free-throw tries

Rutgers’ season was over, or so it seemed. Less than a second remained, and the ACC’s player of the year was headed to the free-throw line to shoot mighty Duke back into the regional finals.

Ashwood has an answer

KU starter stymies Cowboys in bounce-back win

One day after Oklahoma State’s baseball team blasted Kansas University for 14 runs, the Jayhawks silenced one of the Big 12 Conference’s best offensive teams Saturday with a 6-3 victory at Hoglund Ballpark.

Jayhawks go deep in Big 12 opener

Late homers save KU in extra-inning win

The Kansas University softball team figured the long ball worked so well forcing extra innings, why not use it one more time once it got there?

Kansas basketball notebook

Bill Self definitely felt the fourth time in the Elite Eight would be the charm.

Extra Minutes: UCLA 68, Kansas 55

Tying up loose ends from what proved to be the final game in KU’s 33-5 season. The Jayhawks struggled mightily on offense for the game’s final 25 minutes against a UCLA team which now makes its second straight trip to the Final Four.

KU rowers open season

The Kansas University women’s rowing team opened its 2007 spring season Saturday with a six-race regatta against Texas and SMU at Burcham Park.

Today’s capsules

No. 1 North Carolina vs. No. 2 Georgetown and No. 1 Florida vs. No. 3 Oregon.

Stay or go? Wait and see

Rush in no rush; others say they'll return

The one question lingering, waiting to be asked as soon as the season ended, “Stay or go?” was put to bed quickly and firmly by two Kansas University basketball players Saturday.

‘Ugly and brutal’ game sends fans in San Jose packing

Jack Merriman is a fan of Brandon Rush. Watched Brandon Rush. Even dressed up like Brandon Rush.

Commentary: Bruins deserved this

They celebrated, but not too wildly. Donned their regional championship hats and T-shirts, hugged, waved to the crowd.

Jayhawks to return early Sunday morning

The men’s basketball team will land at Forbes Field in Topeka around 3 a.m. Sunday morning. At approximately 4 a.m., the Jayhawks will return to Allen Fieldhouse.

End of the road

KU falls to UCLA, 68-55

Arron Afflalo overcame his history of mediocre big-game performances, leading UCLA back to the Final Four. In an exceptional second half, Afflalo scored 15 of his 24 points and the Bruins held off top-seeded Kansas for a 68-55 victory Saturday night in the West Regional championship. Afflalo also played stellar defense and Darren Collison added 14 points and four big free throws in the final seconds.

UCLA sends KU packing en route to second straight Final Four

San Jose, Calif. - Afflalo’s hot hand, especially starting late in the first half with UCLA’s 12-2 run to close out the first stanza, led him to a game-high 24 points. Darren Collison had 14 for the Bruins, including a bunch of late key free throws. Brandon Rush had 18 for KU, with only four of them coming in the second half. Russell Robinson had 11. KU ends the season 33-5 overall, having won both the regular season and tournament titles in the Big 12, reaching the Elite Eight for the second time in four years under Bill Self. The loss snapped a 14-game winning streak for KU, who had not lost a game since falling 69-66 to Texas A&M on Feb. 3.

Fouls don’t stop Oden, Buckeyes

Greg Oden wasn’t going to let foul trouble stop him, not with a chance to take Ohio State to the Final Four. Frustrated by fouls for a third straight game, Oden made the most of his time on court during a key stretch of the second half, carrying the top-seeded Buckeyes past Memphis 92-76 Saturday in the South Regional finals. Oden’s numbers weren’t huge: 17 points, nine rebounds.

Fagan and the Fans: 15 seconds of … getting ready

Game just hours away

So, just how did you wake up today, now that Kansas University is playing for a spot in the Final Four?

Georgetown ekes out trip to Elite Eight

Jeff Green squeezed between two defenders and Georgetown squeezed out a win.

Ohio State, Memphis evenly matched

South Region finalist Buckeyes, Tigers so similar, but still oh so different

Ohio State and Memphis are seeded 1-2 in the South Regional, each boasting 33 wins and only three losses.

UCLA’s Collison connected to KU

The business card reached the lap of June Collison, the mother of high-school junior Darren Collison, during a random AAU basketball game a few years ago.

What about next season?

Wright still plans to return; others put off decision

Kansas University’s five starters each sat at a table in their own personal interview rooms, holding court with reporters for 30 minutes apiece Friday afternoon in HP Pavilion.

‘Wild’ Wright key tonight

KU sophomore has tendency to break out after poor performances

Every time he takes an ill-advised three, dribbles the ball off of his lower body or makes the pretty pass instead of the simple one, sophomore forward Julian Wright’s Kansas University teammates apply a consistent moniker.

Ryan Wood’s UCLA notebook

UCLA is looking to advance to the Final Four for the second straight season, quite an accomplishment considering three starters were lost from last year’s team.

Tar Heels come back, take over to win, 74-64

Brandan Wright and top-seeded North Carolina almost waited too long to make their move.

No. 1 Florida stays afloat

Florida started slowly - again - and staved off another challenge with a late surge.

Today’s capsules

No. 1 Ohio State vs. No. 2 Memphis and No. 1 Kansas vs. No. 2 UCLA.

Mayer: KU title in 2007 would be a fitting tribute

There’s this dream from which I prefer not to awaken too soon because it’s so delicious: Kansas meets North Carolina for the 2007 NCAA basketball title and nips the Tar Heels by one point in triple overtime. Emotional Roy Williams ought to be able to blubber a week over that.

Oregon Ducks top UNLV in game of threes

Tajuan Porter, the little guy nobody wanted, has Oregon one game away from the Final Four.

Jayhawks hot entering league play

KU opens Big 12 Conference slate today at Oklahoma State

Nearly a month ago, Kansas University’s softball team was muddling along with a 6-5-1 record. But the Jayhawks have won 15 of 19 games since and are on a roll going into Big 12 Conference play.

Knicks sign Kentucky’s Morris to free-agent pact

The New York Knicks signed free-agent center Randolph Morris to a two-year contract Friday, adding the former Kentucky star to their roster thanks to an unusual provision in the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement.

Commentary: UCLA playing the role of intimidator

What fun it was to watch the UCLA Bruins trap, deny, collide, swat, strangle and suffocate anything and anybody necessary to make sure nothing went smoothly Thursday.

Keegan: Keegan: Rush vs. Afflalo a treat

He pondered jumping to the NBA and decided to return to school. He is the go-to scorer and shut-down defender on a balanced, deep team. He made his college decision based largely on a desire to remain close to family.

‘Blinky’ Jayhawk pins sell like hot cakes

The best-selling items for Kansas University fans at the official team hotel in downtown San Jose are not Mario Chalmers jerseys, KU ball caps or even those pervasive plastic strings of crimson-and-blue basketball beads.

Oklahoma State overpowers KU baseball team

With his Kansas University baseball team playing host to Oklahoma State - the Big 12 Conference’s offensive juggernaut - third baseman Robby Price said his team had to score more than 10 runs.

Coast to coast

Trip to Atlanta goes through Golden State

Chris Piper’s been here before. Twice.

Brink of history

Self eyes first Final Four

Bill Self today tries to join an elite group of college basketball coaches: those who have made it to a Final Four.

Gary Bedore’s KU basketball notebook

Kansas University at one time this season was referred to as a “soft team.”

Lawrencians find ways to celebrate in town

Kansas University basketball history surrounded J.A. Long on Friday afternoon, just one day after his Jayhawks escaped with a 61-58 NCAA Tournament victory against Southern Illinois.

Tar Heels pull off biggest rally of season

Brandan Wright and top-seeded North Carolina almost waited too long to make their move. Down by 16 points early in the second half, the Tar Heels suddenly shifted into another gear and pulled off their biggest rally of the season, startling Southern California 74-64 Friday night in the East Regional semifinals. “It was a fantastic comeback to say the least,” Tar Heels coach Roy Williams said. “I have a great deal of confidence in my team. … I knew we wouldn’t give up.”

Porter grabs 33, leads Ducks

Tajuan Porter, the little guy nobody wanted, has Oregon one game away from the Final Four. The 5-foot-6 freshman tied an NCAA regional record with eight 3-pointers and finished with 33 points, and Oregon withstood a frantic comeback to top seventh-seeded UNLV 76-72 on Friday in the Midwest Regional. The third-seeded Ducks advanced to play top-seeded Florida on Sunday.

Jayhawk baseball squad falls to OSU

The Oklahoma State Cowboys trounced KU to the tune of a 14-4 victory on the diamond.

The ‘Madness’ continues to escalate

KU’s road to the Final Four in Atlanta goes through UCLA. Tip-off for the showdown is 24 hours away and 6News reporter Mark Fagan caught up with some KU fans in San Jose on the brink of the big dance’s biggest stage.

Trip to Final Four would be first for Coach Self

After 16 appearances, KU is no stranger to the Final Four. However, for current KU coach Bill Self, it would be a first for his coaching career.

Both Lawrence and KU police will have extra officers on duty

If the Jayhawks manage to pull out a victory over UCLA, city officials expect downtown Lawrence to errupt in celebration.

KU set to ‘Bear’ down against the Bruins of UCLA

6News took a trip to KU’s Museum of Natural History to see what we could learn about the UCLA mascot, the Bruin.

KU and UCLA prepare for big day

Friday afternoon, both the Jayhawks and the Bruins held closed practices to prepare for a match-up of the region’s top two seeds.

Georgetown sqeezes out another win

Jeff Green squeezed between two defenders and Georgetown squeezed out a win. Green spun and banked in a short, off-balance shot with 2.5 seconds to play and the Hoyas earned a harder-than expected 66-65 victory over Vanderbilt in the East Regional semifinals on Friday night. The victory was the seventh straight and 18th in 19 games for second-seeded Georgetown (29-6) and put the Hoyas in the regional final for the first time in 11 years.

Horford helps Gators scrape by Butler

Florida started slowly - again - and staved off another challenge with a late surge. If these Gators are going to repeat, it seems they’re going to do it the hard way. Al Horford had 16 points, seven rebounds and a key block in the final minute to help the top-seeded Gators hold off undersized Butler 65-57 Friday night. The Gators (32-5), trying to become the first team since Duke in 1992 to win consecutive national titles, advanced to the Midwest Regional on Sunday against the Oregon-UNLV winner.

90 solid seconds with…UCLA junior Arron Afflalo

During the NCAA Tournament, KUSports.com editor Ryan Greene will spend 90 quality seconds with a member of the team getting set to face KU. In today’s episode, Ryan chats with UCLA junior Arron Afflalo, a 6-foot-5 wing who was this season’s Pac-10 Player of the Year. He’s averaging a team-best 16.7 points per game this season and scored a game-high 17 in Thursday’s 64-55 Sweet Sixteen win over Pittsburgh.

15 seconds of … what do we do now?

Moments after outlasting Southern Illinois to reach the Elite Eight in this year’s NCAA Tournament, Kansas basketball players settled into their folding chairs in the locker room to answer questions about the Salukis’ defense, Brandon Rush’s efficient sharpshooting and Rodrick Stewart’s inspired play. Then they told us what they’d be doing on the off day, the one before taking on UCLA in the regional finals Saturday.

15 seconds of … gloating

'Hawks fans love California

Temperatures in the 70s, no humidity to speak of and, well, several hundred Jayhawks willing to rub it in a bit for the folks back home.

Extra Minutes: Kansas 61, Southern Illinois 58

Tying up loose ends from Thursday’s anything-but-pretty KU Sweet Sixteen win over Southern Illinois. The 61 points the Jayhawks scored was their second-lowest total of the year, but KU was able to compensate with efficient shooting and matching SIU’s defensive intensity late in the game.

Florida, Butler meet again

In 2000, Gators needed OT buzzer-beater to win

On 2000’s “One Shining Moment” video, the annual recap of each NCAA Tournament, Florida’s Mike Miller blows past Oklahoma State’s Doug Gottlieb to sink a layup. And there’s Miller again, at the bottom of a Gator pile, celebrating the most pivotal shot in Florida basketball history.

UCLA tops Pitt to set up showdown

Who’s ready for another NCAA Tournament game laced with history?

Krugers’ latest relocation pans out

His entire childhood, Kevin Kruger was at the mercy of his father’s career decisions, which took the family from Edinburg, Texas, to Manhattan, Kan., Gainesville, Fla., Champaign, Ill., and Atlanta.

A real dog fight

KU survives battle with Salukis, advances to Elite Eight

Barbara Lauter knows her Jayhawks are still a game away from the Final Four, and three games from an elusive national title.

Painful loss helps motivate Trojans

Harvey Adger will be at home in Baton Rouge, La., watching on television, wondering what might have been.

Smith leaving UK for Minnesota

Embattled coach ends 10-year tenure at Kentucky

With Kentucky fans dogging him after another disappointing finish, Tubby Smith is bolting the bluegrass for Minnesota.

Kansas basketball notebook

No. 1 seed Kansas University has advanced to an Elite Eight meeting against No. 2-seeded UCLA, a 64-55 winner over Pitt on Thursday night.

Keegan: Keegan: Jackson, Stewart spark KU

Sure, it was the main man, Brandon Rush, who snapped awake just in time Thursday inside HP Pavilion to take over offensively late in Kansas University’s 61-58 survival job against college basketball’s ultimate fighters, the Southern Illinois University Salukis.

Fans: Patience, perseverance important for scoring tickets

Take it from Chris Kaufman, Rich Littrell and Chris Green.

Gym rat Byars leads Vandy to Sweet 16

After three somewhat disappointing seasons, Vanderbilt’s Derrick Byars set his alarm clock for 5:30 a.m. in the offseason and went to work.

KU struggled from three-point land

To hit the three first requires being able to launch the three.

Tonight’s capsules

A look at tonight’s four Sweet 16 games:

Two J-W reporters earn APSE honors

Journal-World sports editor Tom Keegan submitted one of the top five breaking news stories in 2006, according to the Associated Press Sports Editors. Keegan took second in the under-40,000 circulation classification.

Supporting cast lifts Ohio State

Lewis, Conley lead Buckeyes' late charge

Maybe now folks will realize there’s more to Ohio State than Greg Oden.

Anderson’s heroics vex A&M

Memphis returns to Elite Eight

Antonio Anderson isn’t the player Memphis would have picked to go the line with a chance to advance to another NCAA regional final.

Salukis falter down stretch

'We ran out of time'

In a close, low-scoring basketball game, little, late hiccups can end a season. Just ask Southern Illinois.

Still standing

KU outscraps SIU, joins Elite Eight

Brandon Rush didn’t feel jubilation after winning the biggest game of his college basketball career. “I feel relief,” Rush, Kansas University’s sophomore forward, gasped after the No. 1-seeded Jayhawks somehow survived a 6-for-13 free-throw effort down the stretch to clip ball-hawking, defensive-minded No. 4 seed Southern Illinois, 61-58, in an NCAA West Regional Sweet 16 game Thursday night in HP Pavilion.

Commentary: SIU effective, not ugly

A funny thing happened at San Jose’s HP Pavilion Thursday night - a Missouri Valley Conference game broke out.

UCLA never trailed Pitt

Ben Howland set the tone early, crouching into a defensive stance with his arms in the air, yelling out assignments. And he’s only UCLA’s coach. His players paid just as much attention at the defensive end in a style all-too-familiar for Pittsburgh. The style Howland employed in four years at Pitt ended up knocking the Panthers out of the NCAA tournament when the Bruins won the West Regional semifinal 64-55 Thursday night.

Oden, Buckeyes hold on

Ohio State senior Ron Lewis knew better than to look at the scoreboard. One look at the Tennessee Volunteers told him all he needed to know. Although the top-seeded Buckeyes trailed by 17 and freshman sensation Greg Oden was in deep foul trouble, Lewis could tell his team had the Vols right where they wanted them. “Their body language was like they already had the game won,” Lewis said.

Jayhawk QB studying hard during Spring Break

While most students are taking a break from the books during Spring Break, KU quarterback Kerry Meier has been studying the team’s new playbook.

‘Late Night’ entertainer passes away

The man known to the world as ‘Bud’ Melman on David Letterman’s late night talk show died this week at the age of 85. Jayhawk fans will remember Melman for a slightly different ‘late night’ performance.

KU baseball ready for home portion of Big 12 schedule

The Jayhawk baseball team hosts 14th-ranked Oklahoma State on Friday to kick off the home portion of their Big 12 schedule.

Close game had many ‘Hawk fans fearing failure

In a packed downtown Lawrence bar, a crowd of anxious KU fans couldn’t help but feel a bit panicked during KU’s tight win over Southern Illinois.

Jayhawks survive ‘Sweet Sixteen’ scare

The Jayhawks survived the tight defense of the Southern Illinois Salukis to advance on to the ‘Elite Eight’ round of the NCAA Tournament.

Jayhawk fans unfamiliar with foe

Journal-World Business Editor Mark Fagan caught up with some Jayhawk fans in San Jose and tested their knowledge of KU’s opponent, Southern Illinois.

Tigers squak past Aggies

Visualize this: The Memphis Tigers are one win away from the NCAA Final Four. Forget those season-long struggles from the free throw line. The Tigers are making them when it counts, with Antonio Anderson hitting two with 3.1 seconds left Thursday night for a 65-64 victory over Texas A&M in the NCAA South Regional semifinal.

HP Pavillion Panorama

Tour the HP Pavillion as the Kansas Jayhawks practice on Thursday in San Jose.

KU survives first Tourney scare, 61-58

SAN JOSE, Calif. - Jamaal Tatum missed a three from atop the key, and Russell Robinson picked off an errant Randal Falker pass off of the rebound. Julian Wright wound up with the ball and was fouled going up for a dunk with :02.2 left. He missed the first and Bill Self called a timeout before the second was hoisted. Wright missed the second, and a final halfcourt heave for SIU was short, as KU escaped with a 61-58 win. Jamaal Tatum led all scorers with 19 points for SIU, while Brandon Rush was the lone Jayhawk in double figures with 12. KU will get the UCLA-Pitt winner Saturday in the HP Pavilion.

San Jose Panorama

Can’t make it to lush San Jose to watch the Kansas Jayhawks? Take a tour of downtown San Jose, the epicenter of Silicon Valley and this week’s NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament.

Salukis’ Shaw practices

Southern Illinois junior Matt Shaw practiced Wednesday in HP Pavilion. And that’s a start.

Players happy for ‘Jank’

This week’s announcement that popular assistant coach Tim Jankovich is headed to Illinois State hasn’t proven to be a distraction to the Jayhawks, freshman Darrell Arthur maintains.

Gary Bedore’s KU basketball notebook

Southern Illinois forward Matt Shaw, who missed the second half of Friday’s first-round win over Holy Cross and Sunday’s victory over Virginia Tech, practiced Wednesday, but still is a question mark for today’s KU game.

We’ll see about ‘D’

SIU defense a stale topic for Jayhawks

Enough about Southern Illinois University’s defense, already. “Honestly, I think ours is better,” Kansas University junior guard Russell Robinson said Wednesday in HP Pavilion, site of today’s 6:10 p.m. NCAA West Regional Sweet 16 matchup between top-seeded KU and fourth-seeded SIU.

Tonight’s capsules

Home runs decisive despite gusts

Jayhawk baseball squad splits doubleheader with Northern Colorado

It seemed as though it would be difficult to get a ball out of Hoglund Ballpark on Wednesday, with the strong winds blowing in from right field during the Kansas University baseball squad’s doubleheader against Northern Colorado.

Kansas-SIU notebook

This is the first meeting between the schools.

Family with Illinois roots faces hawk-eat-dog competition

The McGuinness household is torn over whom to cheer for tonight during the NCAA Tournament West Regional semifinal.

Kansas keeps it loose

Jeremy Case set up 23 feet away from the basket and fired a wide-open three-pointer at the HP Pavilion on Wednesday. He bricked it. Badly.

Trail Blazers’ LaFrentz could play Saturday

Raef LaFrentz will join the Portland Trail Blazers on their four-game road trip today and could begin practicing on Saturday after missing the last six weeks because of a torn muscle in his left calf, Blazers coach Nate McMillan said.

Heat’s Simien returns to active roster

One quest was put on hold and another dream was revived Wednesday night when the Heat faced the Atlanta Hawks at Philips Arena.

Carolina’s Terry has strep, will play

North Carolina senior Reyshawn Terry has been diagnosed with strep throat, but was expected to play against Southern California in Friday’s night East Regional semifinal.

Championship celebration worthy of pricey wine

Brent Pierce makes a living selling collectible wines for as much as $10,000 per bottle.

Texas A&M has come a long way

Some Texas A&M students wore paper bags over their heads during Acie Law’s freshman season, embarrassed to be rooting for a team that didn’t win a conference game.

Keegan: Keegan: Kansas has edge in West

The top four seeds remain in the West region of the NCAA Tournament, so they all are better than George Mason of a year ago, which means they all have a shot to go to Atlanta. Even so, I’ll take Kansas, and you can have the field.

Jayhawk faithful take no chances

Superstitions trump the odds when title on the line

Don’t tell Todd Guerrieri that he’s overconfident. Just because the Kansas University graduate shelled out $1,400 for four tickets to Saturday’s regional final doesn’t mean that he’s taking anything for granted, heading into tonight’s Sweet 16 game against Southern Illinois.

They’re real: Southern Illinois’ Salukis are dogs with long history

Unless you’re a dog expert, Southern Illinois’ mascot, the Saluki, might sound every bit as made-up as the Jayhawk.

Pitt, UCLA coaches still close

Buddies Howland, Dixon put strategy talk on hold

The almost daily phone calls haven’t stopped this week, even though Ben Howland and Jamie Dixon will be on opposite sides of the court tonight.

KU among top seeds still alive in San Jose

Bruins, Panthers, Salukis, and Jayhawks, oh my. The four top seeds in the west regional are all still alive and all held practices at HP Pavilion in San Jose today.

KU makes sweet return to Sweet 16

The KU men are preparing for the second weekend of the NCAA tournament for the first time in three seasons.

What exactly is a Saluki?

As we’re sure you know, KU faces Southern Illinois in the Sweet 16 tomorrow night, but do you know the opponent’s mascot?

Top defensive teams take floor in KU, SIU

When KU and Southern Illinois take the hardwood in San Jose tomorrow, two of the top defensive teams in the nation will be going head-to-head.

Jayhawks split doubleheader with Northern Colorado

The KU baseball team split a doubleheader with Northern Colorado today. The Jayhawks now stay home for a Big 12 series with Oklahoma State over the weekend.

Jankovich returns to team after coaching announcement

It’s official - Time Jankovich is on the way out, and Danny Manning is moving up, but that’s not until after the KU hoops season comes to an end.

Salukis familiar with success in big dance

As for the Jayhawks Thursday Illinois - Southern Illinois - the Sweet 16 is nothing new. The Missouri Valley Conference champs have been to the big dance every year since 2002.

Inside KU’s locker room

Take a tour of the Kansas University locker room inside the HP Pavillion as the Jayhawks prepare for practice on Wednesday in San Jose, Ca.

15 seconds of please don’t go

Fagan with the fans in San Jose

Once the season ends, either with a joyous victory and a national title or a heartbreaking loss and a postseason for questions, it’ll be decision time for some Jayhawks.

90 solid seconds with…SIU senior Tony Young

During the NCAA Tournament, KUSports.com editor Ryan Greene will spend 90 quality seconds with a member of the team getting set to face KU. In today’s episode, Ryan chats with 6-foot Southern Illinois senior Tony Young who hails from Schaumburg, Ill. Young scored 17 points in SIU’s second round win over Virginia Tech.

Howland quite familiar with UCLA’s next foe

Thursday night will be lone time all season Bruins boss isn't Pittsburgh's biggest fan

UCLA coach Ben Howland left quite a legacy at Pittsburgh, including his longtime assistant, Jamie Dixon.

Memphis eager to quiet naysayers

A 24-game winning streak hasn’t convinced everyone that Memphis is a legitimate national championship contender.

Buckeyes say they’ve grown since last tangle with Tennessee

When Ron Lewis’ name was announced at Ohio State’s winter graduation Sunday, there was a loud roar from the thousands packed into St. John Arena.

Jankovich introduced at Illinois State

Tim Jankovich, who played basketball at Kansas State University, fell in love with his college rival the past four years while working on Mount Oread.

Docking leads Kansas golfers

Senior Tyler Docking led the way for Kansas University’s men’s golf team Tuesday at the Western Intercollegiate as the Olathe native finished in third place. Kansas was able to move up two spots in the final round of play to finish the tournament tied for seventh with 871 shots.

Manning bumped into vacancy

It didn’t take Kansas University coach Bill Self long to fill the upcoming vacancy on his basketball staff.

California dreamin’

Hectic schedule suits Jayhawks

Back from Chicago late Sunday night. Off to San Jose, Calif., Tuesday afternoon. Life is a blur these days for Kansas University’s basketball players and coaches.

KU fans shooting for ‘fieldhouse vibe’

San Jose may not be on the water, but it is a certified member of the Bay Area community. And that means plenty of Jayhawks.

Law restores order

Point guard pivotal to Aggies' turnaround

Moments after Texas A&M defeated Louisville to reach the regional semifinals, Acie Law was crying with joy. Aggies coach Billy Gillispie walked up to his star point guard and said, “Didn’t you believe me?”

NCAA TOURNAMENT SWEET 16 CAPSULES

Thursday’s Games

Do Jayhawks have a prayer? Priest, brother are divided on that

The Rev. Bob Flannery actually prayed for this: Kansas against Southern Illinois, with the winner receiving Sweet 16 salvation and a chance to play for passage into hoops heaven: the NCAA Final Four and a national championship.

KU softball falls to Sacramento

Kansas University’s softball team fell to the Sacramento State, 7-4, Tuesday. KU attempted a seventh-inning comeback, but fell one big hit short.

Sin City’s favorite sons

UNLV regains its place among Vegas headliners

The Stardust hotel, imploded last week, is a pile of rubble, but “Titanic, the Exhibition,” is back “by popular demand” at the Tropicana.

Southern Illinois keeps clearing hurdles

It’s really an extraordinary tale if you think about it: a program without a big name, with minimal tradition to speak of and three coaching changes in the last five years.

Keegan: Keegan: Don’t let the name fool you

Southern Illinois University. It’s difficult to take that name as seriously as Duke, Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois. Yet, those schools are gone from the West bracket and Southern Illinois is one of the nation’s Sweet 16, just as its No. 4 seed projected.

Wolfpack won’t be denied

Baylor falls to team of destiny in overtime thriller

Kay Yow hugged her players as photographers took shot after shot. Then North Carolina State’s coach turned to the fans, smiled and triumphantly extended both arms to hold up a Wolfpack hand gesture.

KU baseball again postponed by weather

Weather has once again put a damper on the KU baseball team’s plans. Wet field conditions have postponed the Jayhawks game against Northern Colorado until tomorrow.

Jankovich introduced as head coach at Illinois St.

Kansas assistant basketball coach Tim Jankovich was introduced as the new head coach at Illinois State this afternoon.

‘Hawks not taking Salukis lightly

The Kansas basketball team has arrived in the capital of Silicon Valley tonight. The Jayhawks play their sweet 16 contest Thursday evening in San Jose, Calif.

Learning new offense focus of spring football

Let’s head to the gridiron toddy, where last week the KU football team began spring practice on campus.

Manning to be promoted at season’s end

Former Kansas University All-American Danny Manning will be promoted to a full assistant to replace Tim Jankovich at the end of the season. Jankovich was named the new head coach at Illinois State Monday.

Commentary: Wright could be key for Tar Heels

'Skinny freshman' can't have another off night if North Carolina hopes to advance past USC

North Carolina coach Roy Williams said before Saturday’s Michigan State game that freshman forward Brandan Wright better grow up in a hurry.

Second-half surges carrying Florida

Play after intermission has carried defending national champs to Sweet 16

Maybe the Florida Gators make good adjustments. Maybe they wear down opponents. Maybe they can turn it on when they need it most. Or maybe they’re just a second-half team.

A&M, ISU ousted; OU wins

With star post player Jessica Adair on the bench for much of the game and a step slow when she was in it, George Washington won with smallball.

Illinois St. selects Jankovich

KU assistant will finish season before joining Redbirds

Kansas University basketball assistant Tim Jankovich, who has been a college head coach twice before, will lead a program again.

Henrickson adds second recruit

Kansas University women’s basketball coach Bonnie Henrickson has received her second commitment for the 2007-08 season, and again the theme is height.

Dogged ‘D’

Stopping opponents Southern Illinois' calling card

When some of the country’s top coaches think of Southern Illinois University basketball, they think of intense, in-your-face, almost impenetrable defense.

DePaul upends KSU, reaches regional final

Mejia, Chandler lead Blue Demons to 70-65 win; both coaches 'T'd' up

Sammy Mejia and Wilson Chandler led DePaul with 18 points each, and the Blue Demons reached the NIT West Regional finals with a 70-65 second-round victory over Kansas State on Monday night.

Shaw’s status uncertain

SIU forward injured left ankle in tourney opener

Southern Illinois University’s basketball team recognizes it will need a complete effort Thursday if it wants to get past Kansas University in the NCAA Tournament regional semifinals.

NIU hires former Buff coach Patton

Huskies fired Judson last month after seven-win season

Northern Illinois University has picked former Colorado coach Ricardo Patton to be the school’s new men’s basketball coach.

Spotlight shines on UNLV again

There was a time when coach Jerry Tarkanian’s UNLV Runnin’ Rebels were the biggest stars in Sin City.

KU-SIU taking game cross county thanks to bracket

Up next for Kansas is Southern Illinois. Sounds like a perfect game to be played in St. Louis in the Midwest bracket right? Wrong.

KU’s tourney wins silence Self critics

After the last two NCAA tournament, some KU fans called for the head of Kansas coach Bill Self.

Illinois State taps KU’s Jankovich

Assistant KU men’s basketball coach Tim Jankovich has accepted the head coaching job at Illinois State and is expected to be introduced at a press conference tomorrow in Normal, Ill.

Kansas football team enjoying spring break

After three practices, it’s break time for the Kansas football team. THe Jayhawks, like the rest of the KU student body, are off this week for spring break.

‘Hawks punch Sweet 16 ticket with 88-76 win

For the first time in three years, the Kansas men’s basketball team is still alive in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament as the Jayhawks punched their tickets on Sunday in Chicago by whipping Kentucky 88-76.

KU’s impressive offensive display frustrates Wildcats

For Kentucky, it was a frustrating afternoon for 40 minutes as Tubby Smith’s team watched on as Kansas shot 75 percent from the field.

Both Stewart brothers enjoying tourney success

Kansas junior Rodrick Stewart isn’t the only one in his family heading to the Sweet 16. On Sunday, his twin brother Lodrick scored 10 points for USC as the Trojans beat Texas to advance.

KU assistant Tim Jankovich to take post at Illinois State

Kansas University assistant men’s basketball coach Tim Jankovich has accepted the head coaching job at Illinois State, and is expected to be introduced at a news conference Tuesday in Normal, Ill.

Kansas vs. Kentucky

Immerse yourself in a panoramic view of the KU - UK tournament game.

KU in Chicago: 15 seconds of … rubbing it in

Red, cushion seats at the United center or the trusty Barcalounger in the rec room?

Extra Minutes: Kansas 88, Kentucky 76

Tying up loose ends from Sunday’s win over Kentucky, which was the third against the Wildcats for the KU program in the past three seasons. This time, though, on a neutral site, it sent the Jayhawks into the Sweet Sixteen for the first time since 2004.

Jayhawks can’t hold comfy early cushion

No. 8 Aggies rally to win rubber game

After putting the wraps on a wild victory just more than 12 hours earlier, the Kansas University baseball team found itself on the wrong side of see-saw battle Sunday, wasting a big early lead in a 10-9 loss to No. 8 Texas A&M in the rubber game of a three-game series.

KU took over as Morris sat

Kentucky’s beefy 6-foot-11 junior center Randolph Morris was whistled for his third foul two minutes into the second half, and it was as if a roadblock vanished.

California, here we come

Jayhawks' Road to Final Four takes swing to West Coast

Danni Boatwright is about to catch a serious case of Jayhawk flu, and join hundreds of fellow Kansas fans heading to California for treatment. San Jose, here they come.

Keegan: Keegan: KU sophs living up to billing

Brandon Rush arrived at Kansas University thinking defense was something the other guy played to try to stop him from scoring. By the time Mario Chalmers left an early-season tournament in Hawaii, he realized just how far away Alaska is from the big-time. Julian Wright had flashes of brilliance, when he wasn’t throwing passes to cheerleaders.

Kansas basketball notebook

Kansas University’s Sherron Collins, who had eight points off 4-of-11 shooting with two assists in 26 minutes, needed attention from the trainer in the first half.

Game draws diverse crowd, some from KU’s past

Fans with sweet seats, former Jayhawk and NBA star, and a TV 'Snake Doctor' among the crowd

Chicago Bulls guard Kirk Hinrich visited the visitors locker room Sunday at the United Center, imploring the current crop of Jayhawks to “go get it” - a trip to the Final Four and a National Championship.

Mizzou bows out of postseason

Hanna Zavecz scored 21 points and Justyna Podziemska added 19 as Wyoming never trailed in beating Missouri, 73-67, on Sunday in the second round of the WNIT.

Coach’s son rises for Rebels

Kevin Kruger's clutch threes make father proud

Lon Kruger was beaming. Happy as a coach, proud as a dad. Thanks to a shooting surge by his son Kevin, the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels rallied for the school’s biggest win since the 1991 team made the Final Four.

Self, Jayhawks familiar with SIU

It has been five years since Kansas University basketball coach Bill Self has played Southern Illinois. Five years ago, Self led his former team, Illinois, past the Salukis, 75-72, in the Las Vegas Invitational championship. Afterward, Self said the game was SIU’s “Super Bowl,” something that miffed Saluki fans.

KU fans go the distance for their team

For Jayhawk fans, it’s not unreasonable to jump in a car in the middle of the day - or the night for that matter - to drive several hours to make a KU basketball game.

Baylor not bugged by rally

Bears hold off Chattanooga, advance to second round

For a few minutes in the second half, Baylor appeared in serious danger of becoming an upset victim in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.

Durant, Texas make early exit

UT's freshman star left to ponder future

The best player on the floor will be the best player on the couch for the rest of the NCAA Tournament.

KU impresses UK’s Smith

If Tubby Smith sounds like an expert : well, it’s because he really is. After Kentucky’s basketball team was throttled, 88-76, by Kansas University on Sunday in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, the Wildcats coach matter-of-factly called KU a national-title contender. Listen to him. He knows.

Humphreys, Jayhawks close tourney with win

KU finishes 4-1 at Capital Classic

Kassie Humphreys tossed a complete game and her teammates provided two big innings Sunday as the Kansas University softball team beat Colorado State, 5-1, to finish with a 4-1 mark at the Capital Classic.

THREE-MENDOUS!

Jordan's bling ride inspires Jayhawks

Brandon Rush was in no hurry to enter the bowels of the United Center after stepping off Kansas University’s team bus early Sunday afternoon. His eyes were transfixed on a luxury Range Rover worth well over $100,000.

Commentary: Funny how money changes things

A little greed makes everyone a college basketball fan once March arrives

This column might be even more disjointed than usual, because as I write, my Badgers are losing to hated UNLV, my Gators are fighting with odious Purdue, and my Ducks are mucking it up with Who Dat? Winthrop, one of the many squads hailing from the IUTTC - the Invisible Until Tournament Time Conference.

Commentary: Guard play doomed UK against Kansas

The impossible - well, the highly unlikely - was fleetingly within sight. Kentucky was getting many of the ingredients it would need to concoct a poison strong enough to drop the dragon Kansas University in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Against a long, bouncy Kansas front line, Randolph Morris lived strong.

Vols hold off Cavs, move on

Tennessee in first Sweet 16 since 2000

Go ahead, Tennessee fans. Break out the orange paint and slather up. It sure seems to work for the head coach. JaJuan Smith led a second-half comeback, Chris Lofton made one free throw after another in the final seconds and the Volunteers held off Virginia, 77-74, Sunday in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

Salukis stymie Hokies

SIU to face KU in West Regional semis

Compared to practice, sometimes Southern Illinois’ games are almost like a day off for the Salukis.

Kansas pulls away with 2nd half run

Two traditional powers, but only one spot in the Sweet 16. This afternoon, KU and Kentucky squared off in Chicago in the second round of the NCAA tournament.

Faithful fans keep hopes of a KU championship

Here at home, the madness continues as faithful fans gathered to watched the Jayhawks face off with Kentucky.

Jayhawk alums watch in support

One of KU’s favorite alums was on hand at the United Center today. Former Jayhawk guard and current Chicago Bull Kirk Hinrich watched his alma mater beat Kentucky today.

Traveling fans proud of ‘Hawks’ performance

No question KU fans all over are celebrating. Our own Mark Fagan caught up with those jolly Jayhawk fans who had a chance to watch tonight’s game in person.

Super soph’s lead the way in KU’s victory

Of course the story-line of today’s game had to be the sophomore trio of Brandon Rush, Julian Wright and Mario Chalmers. The three super soph’s recorded 56 of the ‘Hawks’ 88 points.

KU tastes Sweet-ness for first time since 2004

CHICAGO - He then blocked a Ramel Bradley drive off the backboard. Bradley hit a three in the corner to follow it up. Randolph Morris gave himself 20 points with two more free throws making him 14-of-16 from the line on the night. He then scored on a short look off the glass to make it a 13-point game with 3:30 to go. He has 22 points and seven rebounds. Sherron Collins answered back with a floating two in the lane. Joe Crawford was then called for a walk in the lane, leading to another full timeout.

15 seconds of luck?

Who wins in the KU vs. UK game?

So, which of the blue basketball blue bloods - Kansas or Kentucky - will have luck on their side and survive their second-round matchup in Chicago, sending them into the NCAA Tournament’s regionals in San Jose, Calif.?

Byars just dandy for Vandy

SEC player of the year overcomes foul trouble, Cougars' defense

Derrick Byars released five years of frustration on Washington State in the second half. He hit five three-pointers, blocked a critical shot and repeatedly kept Vanderbilt alive in a double-overtime thriller.

Keegan: Keegan: Kansas, UK both better

For what it’s worth, which might not be enough to buy a couple of eggs from room service in this pricey town, just five Kentucky players who played in Allen Fieldhouse last season also played in the Wildcats’ first-round victory against Villanova.

Coaches filled big shoes

Self, Smith followed Williams, Pitino

Kansas University coach Bill Self was asked how difficult it was for Tubby Smith to take over for Rick Pitino at Kentucky 10 seasons ago and for Self to take over for Roy Williams at Kansas four seasons ago.

Kansas basketball notebook

A reporter reminded Kansas University’s Russell Robinson that the Jayhawks not only drilled Kentucky, 73-46, last season in Allen Fieldhouse, but also stopped UK, 65-59, his freshman year in Rupp Arena in Lexington.

Southern Cal will try to slow down ‘Horns

Virginia, Tennessee want a fast pace; Winthrop's defense better than Ducks'

A quick look at today’s eight second-round games:

Plumley gives Sooners needed boost

When Oklahoma’s biggest and best player was struggling, it was the Sooners’ youngest and smallest starter who pushed them through the first round of the NCAA Tournament.

Commentary: Pregame gaffe UK’s worst mistake

The key was starting Dwight Perry. A mistake, you say? A bonehead move, you say, the fact that somehow Kentucky marked the wrong Perry in the pregame scorebook, thus the barely used - three appearances that failed to total a minute - walk-on Dwight Perry was forced to start in place of regular starter Bobby Perry, forced to foul as soon as the opening tip was completed just so Bobby Perry could get in the game.

Trojans recall fallen teammate, look ahead to UT showdown

Ryan Francis would have turned 20 on Saturday. He also would already be an NCAA Tournament winner after Southern California’s first-round win over Arkansas, and he’d be preparing for a marquee second-round matchup against Texas.

Jayhawks win pair

The Kansas University softball team used two strong pitching performances and timely big hits to sweep two games Saturday at the Capital Classic.

Jayhawks win slugfest

Erik Morrison and Justin Ellrich each delivered run-scoring hits in the top of the 11th inning as the Kansas University baseball team outlasted No. 8 Texas A&M on Saturday night for a 17-13 victory at Olsen Field.

Collison’s pick seals UCLA win

Darren Collison finally made the decisive steal that shot UCLA into the next round of the NCAA Tournament.

Clash of the titans

KU-UK battle of bluebloods

Tradition will get what it wants. It’s amazing how an intangible like that works. Kansas University and the University of Kentucky will square off today in a clash of college basketball titans. And it seems that during every possession and every practice, history is watching over each program in its own way.

Wildcats smarting from last year’s loss

It wasn’t as lopsided as, say, Kansas University’s 150-95 pasting of Kentucky in 1989 at Allen Fieldhouse. That game was a once-in-a-lifetime, surreal experience.

UK’s Bradley feeling better

Kentucky guard Ramel Bradley was whacked in the jaw by an elbow while defending Villanova’s Curtis Sumpter on Friday. Woozy, Bradley hit the deck, regained his senses and then was helped off the basketball court at the end of Kentucky’s 67-58 victory in the United Center.

Blue Sunday: KU, Kentucky meet today in round 2 of NCAA tourney

After holiday festivities, Jayhawks ready to rumble

With thousands of shamrock-ensconced partiers milling around him, a bright-green Chicago River barely flowing beside him and a city alive with the Irish spirit raising pints of green beer behind him, Brandon Allen wasn’t even blinking.

KU-UK is OK with this TV GM

Angela Haar wears a Kentucky jacket. She sports a Kentucky necklace. And she works to ensure that members of the university’s expansive network of Wildcat fans can keep up with their teams on radio, television and other forms of media.

Law scores 26; A&M advances

No. 1 Ohio State survives overtime scare vs. Xavier

Acie Law was there when Texas A&M hit bottom, wallowing through a winless Big 12 season three years ago, often wondering if he’d made a mistake by choosing to play for the perennially underachieving Aggies.

Butler’s upset ‘means everything’

Diminutive Graves leads Bulldogs past Terrapins, into Sweet 16 against Florida or Purdue

A.J. Graves can’t grow any wider or taller, and the junior point guard doesn’t believe Butler will ever shed its mid-major label.

KU women’s golf team 11th after second round

The Kansas University women’s golf team improved its position by two spots Saturday, climbing to 11th place after the second round of the Betsy Rawls Invitational.

KU in Chicago: 15 seconds of … name.

Why not UK?

With the crimson and blue of KU sharing space at the United Center with UK’s big blue, some unaffiliated fans might find it difficult to keep things straight.

90 solid seconds with…Kentucky senior Bobby Perry

During the NCAA Tournament, KUSports.com editor Ryan Greene will spend 90 quality seconds with a member of the team getting set to face KU. In today’s episode, Ryan chats with 6-foot-8 Kentucky senior Bobby Perry, a Durham, N.C., native who had six points, two rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks in Friday’s 67-58 win over No. 9 seed Villanova.

Extra Minutes: Kansas 107, Niagara 67

Tying up loose ends from KU’s first March Madness win since 2004. It came in impressive fashion, with six players scoring in double figures as the Jayhawks posted their highest single-game point total in nearly four years under Bill Self.

Louisville wary of Law

Rick Pitino thinks having thousands of Louisville fans at Rupp Arena to watch the Cardinals play in the NCAA Tournament is great. Too bad none of them can guard Texas A&M star Acie Law.

Who’s ready to run?

KU searching for Cornish's successor

It’s safe to say the Kansas University football team will look a bit different offensively without Jon Cornish, who broke the Jayhawks’ single-season rushing record with 1,457 yards last season. Tough shoes to fill.

Kansas basketball notebook

The only player on the Kansas University roster who didn’t score was walk-on Brennan Bechard, who missed two free throws. “We’ll get on him all night about that,” KU’s Brandon Rush joked.

Spirit looms large at KU pep rally

Jayhawk fans have lofty ambitions for team in tournament

Kansas University is conducting its pep rallies outdoors, in the shadows of the 100-story John Hancock Center. The setting couldn’t be more appropriate, to hear Cory Kelly and his fellow KU students tell it.

Durant’s first NCAA game not his last

Kevin Durant had reason to be nervous. It was his first NCAA Tournament game - and possibly his last. At least that’s how it looked until Texas took control against New Mexico State, thanks in part to their star freshman.

Purple Eagles: KU ‘determined’

Blame Bradley. Or Bucknell. Whatever. Fact is, Niagara basketball coach Joe Mihalich knew his team needed the “perfect storm” of good fortune to beat Kansas University on Friday. And judging by the scoreboard - a 107-67 Niagara loss in the NCAA Tournament first-round game in the United Center - it instead was a crystal-clear night with no cloud in sight.

Winthrop dances past Irish

Eagles win first tournament game on seventh try

When Craig Bradshaw arrived at tiny Winthrop four years ago, fellow freshman Torrell Martin told his New Zealander teammate he needed a lesson. On how to dance.

Commentary: Niagara humiliated by Jayhawks

On the day before the game, Joe Mihalich had been brutally honest about the challenge in store. Mihalich said he and his staff had been studying videotape of Kansas for 36 hours and still hadn’t found the slightest sign of weakness.

Keegan: Keegan: Kansas clearly quicker

The first thing the Niagara University basketball program needs to do to ensure this won’t happen again is to buy new video equipment. Apparently, the only working switch on the machine they use to evaluate opponents is the slow-motion one.

Big man Morris carries UK

Kentucky basketball coach Tubby Smith couldn’t think of a turning point in his team’s 67-58 victory over Villanova. But the focal point? That’s an easy one - 6-foot-11 forward Randolph Morris, the most imposing figure on the United Center court Friday.

Big 12 opener unkind

A four-run seventh inning ended any comeback hopes for the Kansas University baseball team Friday night, as the Jayhawks suffered a 9-3 loss to No. 8 Texas A&M in the Big 12 Conference opener for both teams.

Ballweg leaving KU

Lindsay Ballweg, one of seven members of last year’s touted Kansas University women’s basketball recruiting class, is leaving the program. KU coach Bonnie Henrickson said Friday that Ballweg, a 5-foot-10 guard from Overland Park Aquinas High, had been granted a release and plans to transfer to another school.

Not this year

KU avoids early ouster, routs Niagara

Russell Robinson had just started to stretch during pregame warmups Friday when a jittery Kansas University fan offered some unsolicited advice from the United Center stands.

George stingy as Jayhawks nab split

Sophomore right-hander Val George tossed a one-hitter as the Kansas University softball team beat Idaho State, 3-1, to earn a split Friday in the opening day of play at the Capital Classic.

Sorry, mom: Collins focused

Chicago natives tune out family, friends

No distractions means no distractions. If you need further clarification, ask Kansas University freshman guard Sherron Collins. His mother, Stacey Harris, was seated about 15 feet behind the Kansas bench, and Collins could hear her voice all night as he raced up and down the United Center floor.

Jayhawks dominate

KU, Kentucky to play 2nd round Sunday

With his Jayhawks having dispatched two years of frustration with 40 minutes of inspired ball, Kevin Yoder smiled with the quiet confidence that comes with being on the right side of a 40-point victory.

Commentary: NCAA could use better travel agent

For all the complaints about who they invite and how they seed them, what the NCAA selection committee really needs is a better travel agent. Or maybe just an intern who knows how to use the Internet.

Hokies rally past Illinois

Illini's Weber denied chance to face former team, Southern Illinois

Virginia Tech waited 11 years to get back to the NCAA Tournament. Then it took the Hokies more than 39 minutes to find a way to stick around.

Memphis tops UNT

FSHS grad Wooden leads Mean Green

With another win against another unheralded foe, the Memphis Tigers didn’t prove much in their NCAA Tournament opener.

Rush: UK has solid defense

Kansas University will meet Kentucky in a second-round clash at 4 p.m. Sunday at the United Center. The Wildcats beat Villanova, 67-58, in Friday’s late game.

Today’s NCAA Tournament capsules

A quick look at today’s eight second-round games:

KU women 13th after first round

The Kansas University women’s golf team shot an opening-round 323 on Friday and finds itself tied for 13th place at the Betsy Rawls Invitational at The University of Texas Golf Club.

Purdue drops Arizona

Lute Olson, Bob Knight and Mike Krzyzewski are already in the Basketball Hall of Fame. What else do they have in common? They’re all out of the NCAA tournament. Olson’s Arizona Wildcats ended an underachieving season with a 72-63 loss to Purdue on Friday night, joining Krzyzewski and Knight as first-round losers.

Gators pull away after half

The Florida Gators lounged around their hotel for two days, watching the NCAA tournament and waiting for their first-round game. It may have caused them to be a little lethargic to start. Getting behind early helped them wake up. The top-seeded Gators responded from a lackluster first half with the best half in school history and routed Jackson State 112-69 in the opening round Friday night.

Trojans push past Razorbacks

Freshman Taj Gibson did his damage this season on the West Coast, far from the spotlight and well after most of America’s basketball fans had gone to sleep. Now, America gets to see how the Southern California star stacks up against another multi-talented first-year player - by the name of Kevin Durant. On the big stage of the NCAA tournament, Gibson finished with 18 points and eight rebounds Friday night to lift the fifth-seeded Trojans to a 77-60 victory over Arkansas.

Gritty defense takes Southern Illinois to second round

The masters of mayhem are moving on. Southern Illinois got the type of game it craves - no rhythm, no flow, no open shots - and turned it into a 61-51 victory over Holy Cross in the first round of the NCAA tournament Friday night. Letting their gritty defense do the work, the Salukis (28-6) overcame a front-line injury by getting as many floor burns as fastbreaks.

11 years, 39 minutes, Hokies win

Virginia Tech waited 11 years to get back to the NCAA tournament. Then it took the Hokies more than 39 minutes to find a way to stick around. Deron Washington’s banked runner in the final minute Friday night helped Virginia Tech rally from a 13-point deficit with just over 8 minutes left and beat Illinois 54-52 in a first-round game in the West Regional. “It kind of reflects who we are,” coach Seth Greenberg said.

Nevada squeaks by Creighton

Paying too much attention to Nick Fazekas is a gamble when trying to stop Nevada. Marcelus Kemp, Ramon Sessions and Kyle Shiloh gave the Wolf Pack just enough balance to overcome a gritty performance from Creighton and lift Nevada to a 77-71 overtime victory in a first-round South Regional game Friday.

Durant pulls Texas past New Mexico State

Kevin Durant had reason to be nervous. It was his first NCAA tournament game - and possibly his last. At least that’s how it looked until Texas took control against New Mexico State, thanks in part to their star freshman. Durant had 27 points, including 11 of 12 free throws in the second half, and eight rebounds to lead fourth-seeded Texas to a 79-67 victory Friday night in the first round of the East Regional.

Smith, Wildcats move past critics, Wildcats

Tubby Smith was walking off the floor when a fan called out, “Yeah, Tubby! You rock!” Nothing like another Kentucky win in the NCAA tournament to get the critics off of Smith’s back. For one day, at least. Randolph Morris finished with 19 points and 11 rebounds, and eighth-seeded Kentucky flexed its muscle in the second half for a 67-58 victory over ninth-seeded Villanova in the West Regional on Friday night.

Ducks win first tournament game since 2002

The look of concern and worry never showed up. Not when the Ducks were down 9-0 and scoreless for nearly 4 minutes. And especially not at the end, when patient and prodding Miami of Ohio started to chip away at an 11-point deficit. The third-seeded Ducks rallied from their early deficit behind the 18 points of Aaron Brooks, and Oregon matched the RedHawks’ grinding style to pull out a 58-56 win on Friday in the Midwest Regional.

Jayhawk fans enjoying the Chicago scenery

Journal-World Business Editor Mark Fagan caught up with several Jayhawk fans in Chicago who were enjoying the sights and sounds of the town while anxiously awaiting the Jayhawks first round match-up with Niagara.

KU tops Niagara to advance in NCAA Tournament

The Kansas Jayhawks, intent on not losing in the first round for 3 straight years, attacked the basket against Niagara en route to a 107-67 victory.

Kansas football squad held second practice of Spring Friday afternoon

After not receiving a bowl invitation at the end of last season, the KU football team is anxious to prove themselves worthy this year.

Former Free State standout Morningstar slams the Jayhawks over the century mark

During the Kansas Jayhawks 107-67 victory over Niagara, former Free State High standout Brady Morningstar threw down a monstrous dunk to put the ‘Hawks over 100 points in the contest.

Wisconsin recovers from early hiccup, moves on

Wisconsin seemed in a daze, almost like jittery rookies playing in their first NCAA tournament. Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, the newcomer to college basketball’s biggest event, looked like the veterans - at least at the start. Flustered for most of the first half, Wisconsin overcame an 18-point deficit to beat the 15th-seeded Islanders 76-63 Friday in the opening round of the Midwest Regional.

Volnteers equal most points in first round game

Forget “Rocky Top.” Chris Lofton may have come up with a new Tennessee rallying cry. Lofton led the way with 25 points as the Volunteers set off some offensive fireworks to beat Long Beach State 121-86 Friday _ matching the most points scored by a team in a first-round NCAA tournament game.

Winthrop snaps six-game tournament losing streak

When Craig Bradshaw arrived at tiny Winthrop four years ago, fellow freshman Torrell Martin told his New Zealander teammate he needed a lesson. On how to dance. “I told him this was America. Get a little swagger,” Martin said, laughing. The Winthrop guys all have it now. They beat Notre Dame.

KU toasts Niagara, removes first round monkey

CHICAGO, Ill. - Five Jayhawks scored in double figures, and the team hit 100 points without a single player registering 20 or more points. Mario Chalmers led the way with 19 points, while Russell Robinson had 16 points to go with eight assists and four rebounds. Sherron Collins scored 15 points in his first win as a Jayhawk in front of his hometown crowd, while Darrell Arthur chipped in 12 and Julian Wright had 10 points to go with 10 rebounds. KU will play Sunday just after 4 p.m. against the Kentucky-Villanova winner with a trip to the Sweet Sixteen on the line.

Jayhawk fans at the NCAA tournament: 15 seconds of …

As the Kansas Jayhawks took low-pressure jumpshots, made run-of-the-mill passes and otherwise jogged across the court Thursday at Chicago’s United Center, other teams elsewhere were busy struggling to survive and advance in this year’s NCAA Tournament.

Runnin’ Rebels win after 16 years

Shades of the Shark. UNLV won its first NCAA tournament game in 16 years, beating Georgia Tech 67-63 Friday behind 19 points each from Michael Umeh and Wendell White. The last time the Runnin’ Rebels won was under Jerry Tarkanian, who led them to the 1991 Final Four. Now under coach Lon Kruger, UNLV (29-6) won its eighth in a row.

Memphis grabs control late in first half

Say what you want about Memphis not beating anyone. John Calipari’s team just keeps winning. With the shooting of Chris Douglas-Roberts and the inside presence of Joey Dorsey and Robert Dozier, the Tigers made it 23 straight wins Friday by beating North Texas 73-58 in the first round of the NCAA tournament.

Reynolds ‘fine’ in Virginia victory

The next time J.R. Reynolds insists he’s feeling fine, believe him. The high-scoring guard with a balky hip regained his shooting touch Friday, leading Virginia to an 84-57 victory over Albany in the first round of the NCAA tournament. The Cavaliers (21-10) advanced in the South Regional with their first tournament win since 1995, when they reached the final eight.

KU softball takes five-game win streak to Sacramento

When you’re hot you’re hot, and Kansas University’s softball team will take a five-game win streak to a weekend tournament in Sacramento, Calif.

Former Free State star Wooden helps North Texas to second tourney berth

Former Free State high basketball standout Keith Wooden is expected to start for North Texas in the Mean Green’s first-round NCAA Tournament matchup with Memphis today.

Collins reflects on upbringing

Every basketball player has his own routine at the free-throw line. Sherron Collins’ is just more meaningful than most.

Tournament surfing takes toll on bandwidth

The NCAA’s plan to stream all out-of-market men’s basketball tournament games online could be a boon for consumers, but a drag for Internet service providers. A drag on the network, that is.

Kansas basketball notebook

Banged-up Kansas University big men Darrell Arthur and Sasha Kaun practiced two hours (with physical contact) Thursday at Moody Bible College and took part in a shootaround in the United Center. They proclaimed themselves fit for tonight’s game.

Niagara big man knows KU

Veteran forward Duffey played behind ex-Jayhawk Langford as prep

All it takes is one mention, and the smile cracks J.R. Duffey’s face as the memories come rushing back.

Keegan: Keegan: Jackson gets KU fired up

The question hangs beneath the surface like a bad burrito in the stomach: It couldn’t happen again, could it?

Butler burst buries ODU

Pete Campbell was out of his zone. He found it in the nick of time.

Maynor dupes Duke

Ram's pull-up jumper finishes Devils

The game was tied as Eric Maynor took the inbounds pass with 10.3 seconds remaining. Was there any doubt, given the freon in this kid’s veins, that he wasn’t going to give it up?

Commentary: March Madness is all about the fans

You have cannonballed into an office pool and are a master of bracketology. You delight friends with a spot-on, shouting Dick Vitale impression. You are aware that Winthrop is not an English butler, but a team…

Commentary: Brown’s future could fool us all

Coach very well could resurface in NBA head job - with Bobcats, or maybe even 76ers

Go ahead! Be a fool if you want to. The fool is the individual cheering and shaking pom-poms, the one sold on the news that 76ers coach Maurice Cheeks has received a contract extension.

Let’s dance

Jayhawks focused on opener with Niagara

A heckler screamed “Bradley, Bucknell” at Kansas University’s basketball players as they exited the court after a 33-minute workout late Thursday afternoon in the United Center.

Tubby could be in trouble at Kentucky

Despite impressive resume, Wildcat coach's job could be in jeopardy

Tubby Smith has a national title on his resume, and you have to go back almost 15 years to find the last NCAA Tournament he’s missed. His career winning percentage ranks up there with Mike Krzyzewski, Rick Pitino and Bob Huggins.

Eagles reject upset bid

Tech's whirlwind year ends

Sean Marshall and Boston College were in a tight game. Fortunately for them, they didn’t get tight against Bob Knight’s team.

TGIF: Full slate of games today

A quick look at today’s 16 first-round games:

Cavs’ Pollard in hot water

Ex-Jayhawk's 'bad joke': Hey kids, do drugs

Cleveland Cavaliers center Scot Pollard looked into the camera during a recent game and said, “Hey kids, do drugs.”

Game-changing dunks lift Texas A&M over Penn

Acie Law usually is “Captain Clutch” for Texas A&M. On Thursday, teammate Joseph Jones was the one who had the biggest impact with the game on the line.

First-round game a golden opportunity for KU couple

In Chicago, visit Sherron Collins' favorite pizza spot; think green on Saturday

Gary and Carroll Smith don’t want much for their golden anniversary. A national championship would be nice, of course, but not required from a team preparing to open play tonight in the NCAA Tournament.

Practice uneventful

KU eschews dunks, has 'good time'

This wasn’t your normal pregame open practice. This one was much more boring, just the way Kansas University’s basketball team wanted it.

Jayhawks continue brutal schedule at A&M

In the last seven days the Kansas University baseball squad has faced No. 11 Arkansas in Fayetteville, Ark., and No. 20 Wichita State at home.

Mayer: Doc Naismith’s device no tall tale

Gentle James Naismith invented basketball, set up the original rules, “tutored” Kansas to a 55-60 record and mentored Phog Allen as the father of modern coaching. The low-key Naismith was a medical doctor, had a divinity degree and long served as a moral compass on the Kansas University campus.

Campbell shows up in second half, Bulldogs top Monarchs

Pete Campbell was out of his zone. He found it in the nick of time. After missing all three of his shots in the first half Thursday, Campbell found his range midway through the second, hitting three 3-pointers to spark a 17-0 run and help Butler beat Old Dominion 57-46 in a first-round NCAA matchup between mid-majors.

Jayhawk baseball endures up-and-down week

After pummeling Penn. State by 13 two nights ago, the Jayhawks got rocked by in-state rival Wichita State last night, 18-3.

Sherron Collins glad to be back in Chicago

Sherron Collins grew up in ‘The Windy City’ and played his prep ball just blocks away from the United Center.

Purple Eagles hoping to make history

While no #16 seed has ever defeated a #1 seed in the NCAA Tournament, the Niagra Purple Eagles are still feeling very confident with their chances on beating KU.

Odds in Jayhawks favor

Since the NCAA Tournament expanded to 64 teams, no #16 seed as EVER knocked off a #1 seed, leaving KU fans with history on their side.

Jayhawks looking for ‘respect’ after two years of first round exits

Both KU and Niagra are fighting for the same thing in the first round of the NCAA Tournament: respect.

KU football team wonders who will step up next season

After Senior Jon Cornish rushed for over 1,000 yards for the first time in over a decade last season, the team wonders who will step up this year?

KU fans in Chicago eager for tomorrow’s game

Journal-World Business Editor Mark Fagan caught up with several Jayhawk fans in Chicago and asked them for some ‘editorial input.’

100 to 1

Top seed hasn't lost 1st round since '85

After suffering devastating first-round exits from the NCAA Tournament the past two years, it’s understandable if Kansas University basketball fans approach tonight’s game with apprehension.

Georgetown practices patience

Coach John Thompson III preaches patience at Georgetown. Jessie Sapp is a believer. The sophomore guard scored a career-high 20 points to break a shooting slump and lead the second-seeded Hoyas to an 80-55 rout over 15th-seeded Belmont in the first round of the East Regional on Thursday. Sapp had been 12-for-42 in his previous six games and had failed to reach double figures.

Clark leads Cougars to victory

Desperate to do something after a long stint on the bench, Washington State’s Kyle Weaver told himself to read Yemi Ogunoye’s eyes. Ogunoye made it easy _ his inbounds pass went straight into Weaver’s hands. The Cougars’ star stole the ball beneath his own basket and dunked to barely beat the halftime buzzer, and Washington State rode that momentum swing right into the second round of the NCAA tournament.

90 solid seconds with…Niagara senior Clif Brown

During the NCAA Tournament, KUSports.com editor Ryan Greene will spend 90 quality seconds with a member of the team getting set to face KU. In today’s episode, Ryan chats with Niagara senior forward Clif Brown, who tied a career high with 32 points in Tuesday’s 77-69 opening round win over Florida A&M in Dayton, Ohio.

Stanford never finds footing

Louisville did just fine in its odd Kentucky home. Stanford seemed all too eager to flee back to the West Coast. Playing at Rupp Arena - home to archrival Kentucky - Louisville got 16 points from both Edgar Sosa and David Padgett to rout Stanford 78-58 Thursday in the opening round of the South Regional. Coach Rick Pitino’s press rattled Stanford, and sixth-seeded Louisville bolted to a 41-13 lead in front of a highly partisan crowd.

Maryland outlasts Davidson

D.J. Strawberry waited three years to get Maryland back into the NCAA tournament. His patience paid off. Strawberry, son of the former major league slugger, had 12 points and Mike Jones scored 17 to help the Terrapins hang on for an 82-70 win over Davidson on Thursday. Reserve forward Bambale Osby added 11 points and played a key role in sparking an 11-4 run that put the Terps ahead 69-63 with 7:27 remaining.

Boston College knocks out Texas Tech

Sean Marshall scored 21 points and Boston College rallied to knock Bob Knight and Texas Tech out of the NCAA tournament. Marshall had 15 points in the second half Thursday as the Eagles won 84-75 in the first round.

Chicago hotel can’t contain the KU March Madness

The Westin Michigan Avenue features 751 guest rooms, 23 suites and a prominent standing on Chicago’s famed Magnificent Mile.

Still smarting after all these years

Loss to Tar Heels in '57 title game left a mark on Jayhawks

On March 23, 1957, when Spike Lee was three days old and Greg Oden supposedly wasn’t born yet, a wound opened that to this day festers. On that day, in Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, an undefeated band of toughies from New York City playing for the University of North Carolina defeated sophomore Wilt Chamberlain and Kansas University, 54-53, in three overtimes.

Celebrations planned for wee hours

TV parties sprung up for national title game; rally set to follow

It was Game Day for the Kansas basketball team on Friday, March 23, 1957; that night KU would play unbeaten North Carolina for the NCAA championship at Kansas City’s Municipal Auditorium. Optimism prevailed here and in Kansas City, and confident officials here declared that win or lose, there would be a rally at about 1:45 to 2 a.m. Sunday at the Memorial Union.

A&M’s Franklin big contributor

A’Quonesia Franklin was really under the radar as a high school player. Ranked the 248th player in the country out of high school, she’s 5-foot-3 and from sparsely recruited East Texas.

Carolina’s little guys prevailed

Despite Chamberlain's giant presence, KU fell in three OTs

Most people can’t envision a national collegiate basketball title game with no three-point arc, no shot clock, players in boy-cut shorts, high-top Chuck Taylor-style shoes, only two African-Americans in the action, no national television - and a fairly unheralded 5-11 kid jumping center against a 7-foor All-American. That guard not only was featured in the game’s opening play but the very last one.

Texas Tech, B.C. seek consistency

Texas Tech beat some of the nation’s top teams and made Bob Knight the winningest men’s basketball coach in Division I history. Along the way, the Red Raiders also threw in a few puzzling losses.

KU fans fired up for semifinals

Across region, Jayhawk faithful made hoops hot topic

A person in Lawrence on Friday, March 22, 1957, could exert massive effort to get people to talk about something besides college basketball. But such a contrarian would have had little luck. The tremendous enthusiasm had seeped east into the ranks of Kansas City-area followers, as well. Seldom has court fever been as intense and widespread as the 23-2 Kansas Jayhawks faced the zero hour for the national college semifinal game against San Francisco in Kansas City’s Municipal Auditorium. Dick Harp’s Jayhawks were ready for the challenge, but so, too, were their countless fans in the region and throughout the state.

Jayhawks devastated by setback

Some stranger who didn’t know what had just happened in Kansas City might have concluded that the Kansas University basketball team had won a second NCAA championship in Kansas City on Saturday night, March 23, 1957. A homecoming rally and dance for the Jayhawks drew more than 3,000 enthusiastic yet sympathetic people to the Memorial Union. Not many teams, victorious or vanquished, ever were serenaded by the trumpet and vocal renditions of the immortal Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong.

Fan memories of ‘57

Readers share their memories of the '57 game, whether they were there or not

Readers submit their memories of 1957 National Championship game between Kansas and North Carolina. Some were there, some were not, but it’s apparent it left an impression on many.

Wright steps up in Wildcats’ rally

Big second half keys Kansas State triumph

David Hoskins drove for the go-ahead bucket with 33 seconds left, but Akeem Wright got the game ball from coach Bob Huggins for Kansas State’s 59-57 victory over Vermont on Wednesday night in the NIT.

Jayhawk fans hit the road

Rock Chalk Trailer heads to Windy City

Hundreds, perhaps thousands, of Kansas Jayhawks are flocking to Chicago to see Bill Self and the boys open play Friday night in the NCAA Tournament.

Regional had racial undertones

There was a semblance of calm pervading Kansas University’s basketball program and its fans the week prior to the KU-North Carolina battle for the national college title in 1957, but earlier employment of the race card continued to simmer below the surface. KU officials, players and coaches refused to be drawn into a hot debate about what had happened at Dallas on March 15 and 16. But disturbed fans were still muttering after Kansas had defeated SMU and Oklahoma City to win the regional title and advance to the Final Four March 22 and 23 in Kansas City.

Two incidents proved intensity

Confrontations became nasty late in 1957 KU-UNC final

How heated was the competiton as Kansas and North Carolina struggled in the 1957 NCAA basketball title game in Kansas City’s Municipal Auditorium? The fact the game ended with a 54-53 score in Carolina’s favor after a third overtime clearly reflects the intensity of the conflict. Two incidents in particular drew special attention. Regulation play ended with the scored tied at 46. Each team scored a basket in the first overtime, making it 48-all, then nobody scored in the second OT. Carolina missed four free throws in that scoreless stretch.

Jayhawks keep Niagara coach wide awake

So much for that celebration. Stretching out on a charter bus heading to Chicago on Wednesday afternoon, Niagara University’s basketball players were sleeping like babies as the bus rolled through Indiana.

Shockers leave no doubts

KU baseball team hammered by in-state rivals

In five years of coaching the Kansas University baseball squad, the worst defeat Ritch Price had suffered against Wichita State was by five runs - at least until Wednesday’s game at Hoglund Ballpark.

His kind of town

Self OK with playing in Chicago

Bill Self hopped off the team bus at 8:15 p.m. Wednesday, heavy winds blowing and light hail - yes, hail - falling from the sky in front of the Westin Michigan Avenue Hotel.

Keegan: Keegan: Wright a unique talent

The late Branch Rickey, considered the founder of modern baseball scouting, used to say if he saw a pitching prospect throw 49 bad curveballs and one great one, then he marked “great curveball” next to his name. If he saw another pitcher throw 50 so-so curves and no bad ones, he would scratch “so-so curveball.”

Quarterback controversy continues on KU gridiron

While the Jayhawk basketball team was loading the bus in Lawrence, the KU football team was just a few feet away beginning spring practice.

KU hoping to break habit of first round exits

In each of the last two years ago, the Kansas men’s basketball team has left Allen Fieldhouse for the first round of the NCAA tournament, only to return three days later. This time the ‘Hawks left home, hoping to stay away longer than three days.

Wichita State blemishes KU’s undefeated home record

To the diamond now where the KU baseball team tried to remain undefeated at Hoglund Ballpark this season with a win over Wichita State.

Jayhawks arrive in Chi-town for first round

Thirty-five degrees, with rain eventually changing over to snow. No, that’s not our forecast, but that is the forecast for Chicago this evening where the Jayhawks have arrived safely.

Re-tooling begins at spring practices

Kansas University’s football team opens its regular season in 51â2 months. Yet the work the Jayhawks put in over the next four weeks will say plenty about where they’re headed this year.

Commentary: Committee sent message, after all

All these years, the NCAA selection committee has been making it up as it goes along.

KU baseball routs PSU

Kansas University baseball coach Ritch Price was upset that his squad stranded 22 runners as Arkansas swept the Jayhawks over the weekend.

Love and basketball

Lots to like about this KU squad, coach says

Tough taskmaster Bill Self, who sometimes stresses the shortcomings of his Kansas University basketball team, on Tuesday was full of high praise for his Big 12 regular-season and postseason tournament champs.

Slender Crisosto homers, lifts KU

Softball shortstop helps Jayhawks sweep UMKC in midweek doubleheader

Every time Steve Crisosto homers, score one for the Kansas University strength and conditioning staff.

How to pull an epic upset

The scene lives in NCAA Tournament lore, to be replayed ad nauseum over the next few days by the folks at CBS.

Kansas football notebook

The man to beat: KU coach Mark Mangino said Kerry Meier was the “incumbent” quarterback heading into spring, but that doesn’t mean he’s a lock to start over Todd Reesing this fall.

Niagara earns date with KU

Clif Brown’s career night made the NCAA play-in game feel less like a consolation prize. For Niagara, it felt like history.

Keegan: Keegan: Murphy proud of Niagara

A little history lesson is in order for any Kansas University basketball player who might be tempted to overlook Niagara University in the NCAA Tournament opener Friday in the United Center in Chicago.

Baylor coach a fit for Texas

It’s easy to lie to yourself. We’ve all done it. More than once. Telling yourself the truth, even when you don’t want to hear it or acknowledge it, is the hardest thing we do.

Gonzaga’s Downs no longer in dumps

The question was posed to Micah Downs on Sunday, shortly after he and his Gonzaga teammates had learned the NCAA had awarded them a No. 10 seed in the West Region of the NCAA Tournament.

Mangino, team ready for start of spring ball

This time tomorrow, head coach Mark Mangino and the Kansas football team will have one spring practice under their belts.

Kansas rolls over Penn State, 18-5

Mother nature provided a beautiful afternoon on the diamond as the Kansas baseball team hosted Penn State.

Play-in opponent first for Kansas team

For the first time ever, the University of Kansas plays the victor of the opening round game.

Windy conditions help ‘Hawks win two over UMKC

To the diamond now, where the Kansas Athletics Department picked a perfect day to schedule a softball double-header with UMKC.

KU learns opponent, prepares for Niagara

In 2001, the NCAA basketball tournament committee expanded its field from 64 to 65. That on added team added on game to the big dance. Tonight, the tournament opens in Dayton, Ohio, with that game - the winner of which will travel to Chicago to take on the No.1 Jayhawks of Kansas.

Who is next bracket buster?

Butler did it. So did Santa Clara, Vermont, Bucknell and Wisconsin-Milwaukee. George Mason redefined the art of the NCAA Tournament upset last season with its improbable Final Four run.

Ohio State stays on top

Ohio State, Kansas, Florida and North Carolina - the No. 1 seeds in the NCAA Tournament - held the top four spots in the final Associated Press men’s college basketball poll Monday.

Fresno juicy, but Dayton stacked

The Fresno regional is loaded with juicy story lines. The Dayton regional is just loaded. Tennessee - a No. 1 seed along with Duke, North Carolina and Connecticut - headlines an NCAA women’s tournament regional stuffed with defending champion Maryland and two conference winners.

Self orders players to rest

Arthur, Kaun banged up in Sunday's win

After claiming three victories in three days and working overtime Sunday, Kansas University’s basketball players were awarded a day of rest Monday. “Today was a day to get their batteries recharged,” said KU coach Bill Self. He had a busy day with media obligations, including his weekly Big 12 media conference call and hourlong Hawk Talk radio show.

Conradt resigns, soon after win 900

Legendary Texas coach passing reins on to new leader

When Jody Conradt won her first game as a coach, women played six-on-six basketball, and only two players could go the length of the court. How times have changed.

Jayhawk fans face flight crunch

It’s not too late to get game tickets. But it may be too late to get a good flight - unless you have some time to waste in Chicago.

Rattlers: We didn’t get fair shake

Windy City waiting

The last time Florida A&M’s basketball team participated in the NCAA Tournament play-in game, it was just fine with coach Mike Gillespie Sr. “We were ecstatic,” Gillespie said, “because we played our way into the tournament.”

Big 12 coaches support expansion

Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim has plenty of support from Big 12 coaches for expanding the NCAA Tournament.

KU team’s graduation rate lags seeding

Kansas University may be a No. 1 seed, but it’s in the middle of the pack among NCAA Tournament teams for players’ graduation rates.

Picking the field: Kansas to win it all

Jayhawks should top Georgetown to win their first NCAA title since 1988

Sixty-four games over three weeks whittle a field of 65 to one national champion. Here’s one way to look at the NCAA tournament:

Jayhawks ordered to rest until their first round opponent is revealed

Upon earning the #1 seed in the NCAA tournament, the Jayhawks must await the results of a ‘play-in’ game to determine their first round match-up.

Play-in preview: Florida A&M

KU will play the winner of the NCAA Tournament play-in game between Florida A&M and Niagra. Here we take a look at one of those teams: Florida A&M.

Jayhawk fans ready for trip to the Windy City

Local travel agents say Chicago’s proximity to Kansas makes it easy and relatively cheap for fans to see tournament action up close.

Jayhawks greeted with “Hero’s welcome” after winning the Big 12 Conference Title

Late last night, the Kansas Jayhawks returned from Oklahoma City only to be greeted by several happy fans cheering on the victorious ‘Hawks.

Play-in preview: Niagra

KU will play the winner of the NCAA Tournament play-in game between Florida A&M and Niagra. Here we take a look at one of those teams: Niagra.

Game, flight tickets for KU in short supply

Flights already booked

KU doesn’t open play until Friday evening. But as of this morning, almost all flights from Kansas City to Chicago on Thursday and Friday were booked.

Commentary: Count on Jayhawks to rule the West

In fact, don't stop there - KU will be the one team left standing in Atlanta

Kansas, Kansas and more Kansas - far as the eye can see. Roy Williams spent years trying to bring that elusive crown back to Lawrence.

Razorbacks finish sweep

Danny Hamblin’s three-run homer in the sixth inning helped Arkansas earn a 5-2 baseball victory Sunday against Kansas University.

Buckeyes take title, top seed

Ohio State won the Big Ten tournament. Now the No. 1 Buckeyes can focus on the big prize.

Keegan: Keegan: Moxie shows through

Get ready. Every time you turn on your TV, you’ll hear about how “talented” Kansas University’s basketball team is. It’s not necessarily meant as a slight, but somehow it’s beginning to enter the ears as such.

Jayhawks bound for Chicago

KU nets West No. 1 seed in NCAA Tournament

The Jayhawks came back from 22 points down to win the Big 12 Conference Tournament championship in overtime against the team with arguably the best player in the country and with the most important TV show of the college basketball season just a few minutes away.

Play-in coaches livid

FAMU, Niagara say they belong in field

Whomever Kansas University’s basketball team plays in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday, it will be playing an unknown opponent with a major chip on its shoulder.

Kansas basketball notebook

Kansas freshman Darrell Arthur prepared to take a charge two minutes into the second half when Texas’ D.J. Augustin’s knee came crashing into his groin.

‘WE ARE FIGHTERS’

Biggest comeback in school history lands KU tourney title

Mario Chalmers stood on the Ford Center court late Sunday afternoon, next in line to climb the ladder and take a snip out of the south net.

Road begins in Chicago

Kansas University basketball players Mario Chalmers, Sherron Collins and Russell Robinson thrust their right index fingers into the air late Sunday afternoon in a meeting room deep in the basement of Ford Center.

KU’s Short sets record at NCAA swim meet

Kansas University senior Jenny Short broke a school record in the 200-yard backstroke Saturday during the final day of the NCAA Swimming and Diving competition at the Minnesota Aquatics Center.

Mid-majors feeling snubbed after selections

So much for the little guy. Big boys like defending champion Florida and No. 1-ranked Ohio State are among the top-seeded favorites, while the darling mid-major teams get surprisingly few chances to turn the NCAA Tournament into a free-for-all for underdogs.

Tournament tickets available

Students, faculty and staff interested in purchasing tickets to Kansas University’s first round NCAA Tournament game in Chicago need to act fast.

Kansas State snubbed by committee

Despite a turnaround season under first-year coach Bob Huggins, Kansas State made dubious Big 12 Conference history when the Wildcats were snubbed by the NCAA Tournament on Sunday.

Long shot

Even with basketball knowledge, chances of bracket-betting perfection remain slim

Here’s a number you probably don’t want to think about today as you’re filling out your NCAA tournament bracket for your office pool. According to Kansas University math professor Ben Cobb, the probability of picking all 32 first-round winners randomly is 1 in 4.3 billion.

Even NIT doesn’t want Missouri

Stung by a lopsided loss to Baylor in the first-round of the Big 12 Conference tournament three days earlier, the Missouri Tigers opted not to gather as a team Sunday night to await a possible NIT bid.

Lack of energy hurts KU

Horvath, Avdeeva lone winners in loss to Louisville

It was a cold and overcast Sunday at the Robinson Courts, but it didn’t seem to bother Kansas University tennis players Edina Horvath and Elizaveta Avdeeva.

Longhorns laud KU ‘D’

Jayhawks slow Durant in second half

Almost every time Texas has played a basketball game this season, much of the postgame talk has centered on the brilliance of freshman Kevin Durant.

KU’s Jackson huge in hometown

Reserve's key blocks, rebounds, free throws propel Kansas

Darnell Jackson figured D.J. Augustin might drive to the hole.

Fans experience highs, lows

Kansas fans leaped to their feet with every point and change of possession Sunday afternoon.

Twice as nice

Humphreys tosses no-no, homers in win

What could be better than throwing a softball no-hitter? How about hitting a home run, too? Kassie Humphreys delivered both as Kansas University blanked New Mexico, 4-0, in the championship game of the Jayhawk Invitational on Sunday afternoon at Arrocha Ballpark.

Players, fans recount OKC stories

The Jayhawks brought a little slice of home with them to Oklahoma City, helping transform the NBA Hornets’ locker room into a place reminiscent of the home room at Allen Fieldhouse.

KU lands last No. 1 seed in NCAA tourney

Say what you will about the holiday season or a nice summer vacation, but to a hoops-crazed town like Lawrence, this truly is the best time of year.

Jayhawks mount comeback, claim tourney championship

30 wins, a Big 12 regular season title and a conference tournament championship - what does that get you? A No. 1 seed, more specifically the last one left.

Humphreys leads ‘Hawks to tourney championship

The defending Big 12 Tournament softball champions took the field today in the finals of the Jayhawk Invite.

Jayhawk fans enjoying March’s true “madness”

It was an afternoon of thrills for KU fans and while things were tense during today’s Big 12 Championship final, the Jayhawk faithful have cause to celebrate and look forward to the real beginning of the real madness.

Extra Minutes: Kansas 88, Texas 84 (OT)

Tying up loose ends from the most exciting yet in KU’s 34-game schedule, which clinched the Big 12 Tournament championship and catapulted the Jayhawks into a one-seed in the West regional of the NCAA Tournament. KU’s balanced attack and toughness overcame Texas’ individual offensive punch for the second time in eight days.

NCAA tickets available; team returns tonight

Students and faculty interested in purchasing tickets to Kansas University’s first and second round games in the NCAA Tournament can go online to www.kuathletics.com right now to get their tickets.

Robinson, Jackson come up big as KU escapes in OT

OKLAHOMA CITY - Jackson hit both free throws, and Texas was left to scramble, but A.J. Abrams hit a three with :08.3 left, keeping htem with a faint pulse. After a Texas timeout, Russell Robinson was fouled with :05.3 left on the clock and KU up by two. Robinson swished both, all but sealing it for KU. Kevin Durant’s last three was off, as he went scoreless in overtime. Kevin Durant led all scorers with 37 points, which goes down as a Big 12 Tournament single-game record. A.J. Abrams added 16 for Texas. KU, though, showed its typical balance. Sherron Collins led the way with 20 points, Brandon Rush and Julian Wright each scored 19, while Mario Chalmers had 17.

The stage is set

KU wins, stakes claim to top seed

At 29-4, Kansas University’s basketball team owns one of the best records in the country. Winners of 10 straight games, the Jayhawks possess one of the longest winning streaks in the land.

Kansas basketball notebook

Darrell Arthur, who had been slowed by a lung virus this week, had eight points off 4-of-5 shooting in 17 minutes.

Location, location

Wilson picks perfect spot to deliver game-winner

No one on Kansas University’s softball team was hungrier for a hit than Betsy Wilson. Wilson went into this weekend’s Jayhawk Invitational with a tepid .100 batting average, but her 10th-inning RBI single gave KU a 3-2 win over North Dakota State Saturday at Arrocha Ballpark.

Mid-majors optimistic

Will last season's success influence committee?

Missouri State coach Barry Hinson vividly recalls that Sunday night last March. So certain his team would make the NCAA Tournament, Hinson invited a CBS crew to capture the celebration live.

Sultanova, Wissel shine at Indoors

Kansas University junior Kate Sultanova placed third in the women’s pole vault Saturday at the 2007 NCAA Indoor National Championships at the Randal Tyson Track and Field Center.

Longhorns eager for rematch

Texas holds off OSU, 69-64, sets up championship-game showdown with Jayhawks

Rarely do second chances surface with such strikingly similar circumstances. But Texas will get a chance for redemption against Kansas University today for the Big 12 tournament championship - just eight days after KU wrecked the Longhorns’ chance at a share of the regular-season title.

Commentary: Big 12 event good rehearsal for KU

Experience should allow Jayhawks to win different types of games in NCAA Tournament

They got tossed into a mosh pit. They got pulled into a mud-wrestling match. They got trapped in a steel cage, where even the smallest advance was treacherous.

Smaller conferences deserve more NCAA bids

In the Sagarin Ratings Index of all-time great American debates, there is Lincoln-Douglas, Kennedy-Nixon and Big Ten-Big East. As in, should the sixth-place team in the Big Ten get in over the sixth-place team in the Big East?

Oden sets rebounding record; OSU advances

No. 1 Buckeyes square off with No. 3 Badgers today

Greg Oden spread out his arms and let out a primal scream. It was time to celebrate. His highlight-reel dunk pretty much punctuated another victory for Ohio State and sent the Buckeyes to the finals of the Big Ten tournament.

Keegan: Keegan: KU-UT could be a classic

Today’s Big 12 tournament title game presents everyone with a rare opportunity to kick back, relatively stress free, and watch a basketball game between teams featuring a ton of talented athletes playing the best basketball of their lives.

Jayhawks finally enjoy some fun in the sun

KU tennis team in good spirits following victory against Nebraska in outdoors debut

After sophomore Edina Horvath scored the final point of her match to seal Kansas University’s 5-2 defeat of Nebraska University at Robinson Courts, the rest of the girls tennis team enveloped her in celebration.

Wright eyes Chicago trip

KU could be headed to soph's hometown

Julian Wright has heard the whispers on where Kansas University’s basketball team likely is headed next week.

Durant looms for Jayhawks

Brandon Rush can think of better things to do on a lazy Sunday than chase Kevin Durant around Ford Center.

Arkansas’ Schmidt silences Jayhawks

Kansas University sophomore lefty Nick Czyz threw seven innings and allowed just three runs on three hits, but it wasn’t enough as No. 10 Arkansas secured a 4-0 baseball victory Saturday at Baum Stadium.

KSU’s Huggins: Crunch this

Coach says 'Cats deserve to be in NCAA field

For reasons only computer geeks understand, Kansas State coach Bob Huggins and his players who have grown up so much in their first year playing for him must sweat out the Selection Sunday television show.

Rush - not Paris - lifts OU

Forward steps up when star center goes cold

Leah Rush can emerge from Courtney Paris’ shadow when she has to - especially in tournament time.

K.C. eager for tourney’s return

The Big 12 Conference won’t be bringing its postseason basketball tournaments back to Oklahoma City if Brenda Tinnen has anything to say about it. Tinnen is general manager of the new Sprint Center in Kansas City, Mo., and will be overseeing the 18,500-seat arena that will be home for next year’s men’s tournament. The women’s tournament will be played in nearby Municipal Auditorium.

15 seconds of…

The Journal-World’s Mark Fagan follows the fans.

Extra Minutes: Kansas 67, Kansas State 61

Tying up loose ends from the game that sealed KU’s three-game season sweep of in-state rival Kansas State Saturday in Oklahoma City. KU didn’t have its flashiest effort of the season, but thanks to a Mario Chalmers-led run early in the second half, the Jayhawks advance to Sunday’s title game against Texas, who they beat 90-86 a week ago in Lawrence.

KU gets TKO over K-State, 67-61

OKLAHOMA CITY -A free throw-fest finished up the game, as Mario Chalmers led KU with 16 points. Julian Wright had 12, including a late bucket in the lane and a nifty dish to Darrell Arthur, both of which helped KU ice K-State for the third time this season. Sherron Collins was the third Jayhawk in double figures, scoring 10, including two three-pointers. Cartier Martin led all scorers with 17 points, while Lance Harris had 16 and Akeem Wright had 12 for K-State. KU will take on the winner of Texas and Oklahoma State tomorrow at 2 p.m. in the Ford Center.

KU softball splits openers

Jayhawks topple Drake, lose against N.D. State

Kassie Humphreys figures the worst is over. “It seems like every weekend,” Humphreys said, “we have one game where we’re flat.”

Big 12 Tournament briefs

Don’t worry, Jayhawks fans. The NBA can wait for Brandon Rush. The guy in the No. 25 jersey said as much Friday, with a smile as wide as a youngster dreaming of a professional career and eyes focused crisply on postseason championships.

KU baseball tumbles at Arkansas

Senior Kyle Murphy went 3-for-4 with a career-high five RBIs Friday, but it was not enough for the Kansas University baseball team, which fell, 8-7, to Arkansas.

Later, Sooners

Rush keys second-half run that ousts OU

Brandon Rush’s coach ordered him to be more aggressive in the second half. Maybe more importantly, so did some of his peers, not enthralled with the Kansas University sophomore’s three-shot, three-point, first-half effort in Friday’s Big 12 tournament quarterfinal game against Oklahoma in Ford Center.

Wildcats hungry for another bite

Third time’s a charm. Or another punch in the stomach. Kansas State’s 66-45 basketball victory over Texas Tech on Friday in the Big 12 tournament quarterfinals set up another Sunflower Showdown. Part three, at the Ford Center at 1 p.m. today.

Commentary: Sooners worn out after deflating loss to Jayhawks, long season

To the very end, he never stopped moving. Curling around screens, looking for open space, any sliver of freedom from which to hoist a shot.

Boggan’s bucket lifts OSU over A&M

Given a chance to keep Oklahoma State’s season alive, Mario Boggan came through with the latest in a series of clutch plays.

Collins busts slump

Freshman ends 2-game scoreless jag

Sherron Collins’ scoring is back. Sort of. Kansas University’s freshman guard had a goose egg in each of his last two games in terms of point production. So to have simply an average outing - eight points on 4-of-8 shooting - in KU’s 64-47 victory over Oklahoma on Friday was almost a bit of a relief.

Sooners hit wall against KU

Oklahoma University lost Friday afternoon’s Big 12 tournament quarterfinal game to Kansas University when former Sooners coach Kelvin Sampson bolted for Indiana and successor Jeff Capel couldn’t convince Sampson’s prize recruits to stay.

KU swimmers compete at NCAA nationals

Kansas University swimmer Danielle Herrmann took 25th in the 100-yard breaststroke at the NCAA Swimming and Diving Competition on Friday.

Kansas basketball notebook

Friday’s victory was Bill Self’s 100th at Kansas University against 28 losses. Does the 100th win mean much to KU’s fourth-year coach? “No, but I figured you’d bring it up,” he cracked. “We’ve got a lot of work left. We’re off to a good start this year. We’ve got to finish strong.”

K-State planning revenge

Several of Kansas University’s players would have welcomed a Big 12 semifinal game against Texas Tech today in Ford Center.

Hoyas hold off Notre Dame

John Thompson III looks to repeat father's success in Big East title game

John Thompson led Georgetown to six Big East tournament titles and its last appearance in the championship game. Now, his son has a chance to experience a conference final.

Jayhawk thrower wins national title

Kansas University’s Egor Agafonov won the national championship in the 2007 men’s weight throw.

Keegan: Kaun deserves props

The next time Kansas University junior center Sasha Kaun takes anybody’s breath away during the course of a basketball game will be the first time.

Durant shows up for second half

Kevin Durant’s first-half performance was forgettable. Luckily for Texas, he made up for it by putting on a show in the second half. Durant, the league’s player of the year, missed his first 12 shots but recovered to finish with 29 points and 13 rebounds, and the fifteenth-ranked Longhorns came from 20 points down to beat Baylor 74-69 Friday night in the Big 12 Conference tournament quarterfinals.

Jayhawks use big second half to top OU in Big 12 tourney

After a stagnant first period, an inspired Jayhawk’s squad held off the Oklahoma Sooners in route to a 64-47 victory in the Big 12 Tournament.

Boggan’s late shot lifts Cowboys

Mario Boggan scored from the right block with 11.5 seconds left to give Oklahoma State a 57-56 victory over No. 7 Texas A&M in the Big 12 tournament quarterfinals Friday night. After Antanas Kavaliauskas missed a baseline jumper that could’ve stretched the Aggies’ lead to three, the Cowboys took over possession and set up their last chance during a timeout with 21.3 seconds remaining.

Wildcats rout Red Raiders

Kansas State players Lance Harris and Cartier Martin heard the rumblings that the Wildcats might not merit a berth in the NCAA tournament, and they determined to do everything they could Friday to make sure their team isn’t left out. Harris finished with 20 points and Martin added 17 as the Wildcats polished their tournament credentials with a 66-45 win over Texas Tech in the Big 12 Conference tournament quarterfinals.

Extra Minutes: Kansas 64, Oklahoma 47

Tying up loose ends from Friday’s 17-point KU romp over Oklahoma in the Big 12 tournament quarterfinals. KU made the run thanks in large part to an overwhelming second half in which staunch defense helped the Jayhawks score plenty in transition and held OU to a 4-of-20 showing from the field.

Big second half helps KU blast OU, 64-47

OKLAHOMA CITY - Brandon Rush led all scorers with 16 points, with 13 of those coming in the second half. KU mangled OU in the game’s final 20 minutes, as the Sooners converted just four field goals after halftime. Darrell Arthur added 10 for KU, just days after coming down with a flu bug. The Jayhawks will take on the winner of this afternoon’s Texas Tech/Kansas State game at 1 p.m. Saturday afternoon in the Ford Center.

Jawhawk fans at the Big 12 tournament: 15 seconds of . . .

Mark Fagan finds out what Jawhawk fans are thinking.

Kansas fans gear up for tournament

Lawrence bar owners are confident that the Jayhawks’ appearance in the Big 12 Basketball Tournament will bring more fans to their establishments than the few that showed up to send the team off from Allen Fieldhouse.

Rehab finally pays off for KU softball catcher Pottorf

Two shoulder operations. Two missed softball seasons. Elle Pottorf knows all about low-lows. “My lowest point was probably after my second surgery and it wasn’t any better,” said Pottorf, a red-shirt sophomore catcher for Kansas University. “I thought I’d never be able to play the sport I love and be pain-free.”

Knight’s diatribe sparks Texas Tech past Colorado

After yet another missed block-out, Texas Tech coach Bob Knight called Martin Zeno over to the Red Raiders’ bench in the second half for what Knight initially referred to as “a discussion” before correcting himself.

UCLA, Duke take tumbles

Cal stuns No. 4 Bruins; Blue Devils fall to N.C. State

On the losing end twice against UCLA after owning first-half leads, California nearly let it happen again. This time, the Golden Bears got an extra five minutes and finished off the Bruins.

Mayer: Mayer: ‘Rope’ not frayed by age

He’s in his upper 80s, still wears his Jayhawk letter jacket with extreme pride and represents virtually all the good things Kansas University and its basketball heritage embody.

KU eyes second net-cutting

Jayhawks want to improve on 2006's 11â2 titles

Kansas University’s basketball team won’t be lacking for motivation today, and possibly through the weekend, at the 2007 Big 12 postseason tournament.

Madness tips off today for Jayhawks

Lawrence resident Janice Arneson is relaxing in the first seat of the sixth row of section 118 at the Ford Center, watching the Nebraska Cornhuskers cut their first-half deficit to 30-19 by banking in a running buzzer-beater against Oklahoma State.

Kansas women learn lessons, grow to prepare for next season’s play

Shaquina Mosley feels there’s a lesson hidden somewhere in this trying season.

Sooners get ready for KU

Make no mistake about it: Oklahoma University’s basketball team still respects the heck out of Kansas University, even after giving the Jayhawks a scare two weeks ago.

Brown proud of KU’s Self

Jayhawk coach could earn 100th victory at Kansas today against Sooners

Still physically fit at age 66, Hall of Fame basketball coach Larry Brown postponed his morning workout a half hour to praise one of his favorite pupils, Bill Self.

OU guard recovering from flu bug

Oklahoma senior guard Michael Neal anticipates he’ll be ready to play today when the Sooners take on Kansas University in the Big 12 tournament quarterfinals.

Gary Bedore’s KU basketball notebook

Julian Wright and Mario Chalmers scored 18 points apiece, while Sasha Kaun had 11 points and nine rebounds as KU tripped OU, 67-65, on Feb. 26 in Norman, Okla. KU blew a 17-point second-half advantage, but managed to claim the win. Nate Carter had 20 to lead the Sooners.

Baylor takes out Oklahoma

Courtney Paris had 20 points and 14 rebounds, and No. 11 Oklahoma held off a second-half rally by No. 18 Baylor to win, 78-64.

Baylor upsets Missouri

Bears beat Tigers, 97-83

Baylor pulled off the only major upset of the opening day of the Big 12 tournament with the best shooting performance any team has ever had at the event. Curtis Jerrells scored a career-high 31 points and Henry Dugat added 25, sparking the 11th-seeded Bears to their first Big 12 tournament win since 2001, a 97-83 victory over Missouri on Thursday night.

Let the March Madness begin!

The KU men’s basketball team begins its march to a Big 12 Tournament Championship today against Oklahoma.

KU to open Big 12 Tournament against Oklahoma

The Oklahoma Sooners defeated the Iowa State Cyclones Friday afternoon to advance and face off against Kansas in the Big 12 Tournament.

Nebraska sets new low

OSU tops NU, 54-39

Mario Boggan scored 11 points to lead a balanced scoring attack as Oklahoma State beat Nebraska 54-39 in opening-round action of the Big 12 Conference Tournament Thursday night. Boggan was the only Cowboys player to score in double figures. Teammates JamesOn Curry and Marcus Dove finished with nine points each and Byron Eaton and David Monds had eight and seven, respectively.

Texas Tech tops Colorado

Texas Tech senior guard Jarrius Jackson laughed at the notion of being considered a Kansas State killer. If the Red Raiders knock off the Wildcats on Friday, it just might bury K-State’s NCAA Tournament hopes. Twelve months ago, it was Wildcats coach Jim Wooldridge who got fired just minutes after Jackson and Texas Tech bumped off the Wildcats in the first round of the Big 12 tournament.

KU to face Oklahoma Friday in Big 12 quarterfinals

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. - Oklahoma held off a late Iowa State run to win its Big 12 Tournament opener Thursday morning, 68-63. The Sooners (16-14 overall, 6-10 Big 12) might have locked up a berth in the NIT with the win, and will look to solidify their case further when they take on top-seeded Kansas Friday at 11:30 a.m. in the Ford Center.

Oklahoma holds on, moves to second round

Oklahoma lost its lead, but didn’t lose its cool. Nate Carter scored 22 points and got Oklahoma back on track after it had squandered a 14-point lead as the Sooners beat Iowa State 68-63 in the opening round of the Big 12 tournament on Thursday. “We don’t want to go home right now,” Carter said. “We just want to keep playing, keep playing hard. We believe that if we play together, we can beat anybody.”

KU leaves for Big 12 tournament

Jayhawks top seed in postseason tourney

The team bus left from Allen Fieldhouse about 1:30 for Topeka’s Forbes Field. At Forbes, the team will board a plan for their flight to Oklahoma City and a first-round match-up with the Oklahoma Sooners. Kansas squeaked by the Sooners in Norman, Okla., when they met earlier this season.

Going to the tournaments? Send us your videos and photos!

If you’re a budding videographer or photographer following the Jayhawks in the Big 12 and NCAA tournaments, we want to see your shots.

Ex-Jayhawk Burnett resigns

Cheryl Burnett, unable to repeat her previous success, is no longer the women’s basketball coach at Michigan University.

Baylor finishes off Jayhawks

So Bonnie Henrickson was a little grumpy. After two back-to-back late nights on the basketball court, the Kansas University women’s coach had a team on the wrong side of the scoreboard and a foul on sophomore Ivana Catic she felt was ridiculous.

Big 12 loss could drop Jayhawks’ NCAA seed

Winning the Big 12 tournament, Bill Self says, would “probably guarantee” his Kansas University basketball team a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament.

Paris finishes UT; ISU wins thriller

Oklahoma had trouble against Texas’ defense getting the ball inside to All-America center Courtney Paris. Once she did get involved, it was the Longhorns who started to struggle.

Tovar officially joins KU coaching staff

As expected, Kansas University football coach Mark Mangino announced Wednesday that Steve Tovar had joined his staff as linebackers coach.

Marquette stops St. John’s in Big East opener

Marquette needed to huddle up and quickly analyze the situation. Its big lead was gone and St. John’s was scoring at will.

OKC rolls out red (and blue) carpet

Color Jim Cowan crimson and blue. His iconic restaurant, Bricktown Brewery, is firmly established as the place to be for Kansas University fans flocking to Oklahoma City for this weekend’s Big 12 Basketball Tournament.

Middle batters blast Baker

After eight innings of aggressive play by the Kansas University baseball squad at Hoglund Ballpark, Baker University finally said mercy.

Simien working out, eyes summer return

Wayne Simien, still on his way back from a recurrence of a salmonella infection, is working out with the Miami Heat again, and the team is “taking a cautious approach” and is hopeful he can return to action by this summer, according to team spokesman Tim Donovan.

KU’s Self always showed promise

High school coach hardly surprised at KU coach's success

The huddle 26 years ago, consisting of a gaggle of teenagers and a wet-behind-the-ears head coach, would have made anyone a believer.

KU women trying for upset No. 2

KU tries to upend No. 3-seeded Baylor tonight in the quarterfinals of the Big 12 Tournament in Oklahoma City, Okla. The Jayhawks knocked off No. 6-seed Oklahoma State last night, 71-62.

KU women close season with loss to Baylor

The KU ladies were also in action tonight in the second round of the Big 12 Conference Women’s Tournament against Baylor in Oklahoma City.

Let’s play two

McIntosh hardly a black eye in victory

Taylor McIntosh looked the part of a prize fighter Tuesday - battered and bruised, but certainly not ready to call it a night.

Ryan Wood’s KU football notebook

Kansas University is expected to fill its assistant-coaching vacancy by hiring Steve Tovar, a source in the KU athletic department confirmed. The announcement could be made official as soon as today.

Keegan: Keegan: Coaches make fine hypocrites

College basketball coaches can be the funniest creatures on the planet sometimes. Their material is at its knee-slapping best when they bash the media for a tendency to center coverage on the players who score the most points.

Texas’ Barnes Big 12 coach of year

Huggins, Gillispie tie for second place; Self finishes fourth

The way Kevin Durant tore through the Big 12 and nearly carried the Texas Longhorns to a share of the league title, it was easy to forget the task coach Rick Barnes faced when the season began.

Former Jayhawk retires

49ers re-sign Norris

Linebacker Don Davis, a former Kansas University standout who played in the NFL for 11 seasons, has retired.

KU pummels Tabor

Eleven-run sixth inning lifts Jayhawks

The sixth inning still might be going from KU’s 18-2 victory against Tabor College on Tuesday afternoon.

Wright State snags Horizon title

DaShaun Wood was shocked when new Wright State coach Brad Brownell stood before his team for the first time and said the Raiders were going to the NCAA Tournament.

Cyclones deny KSU upset bid

Nicky Wieben scored 18 points as Iowa State used a string of

Team unity paying off for Jayhawks

KU players have no problem sharing scoring, so long as it adds up to victories

Kansas University’s basketball players gather around coach Bill Self in a tight circle in the locker room before practices and games.

KU’s Woodland wins Louisiana Classic

Kansas University senior Gary Woodland tallied his third victory of the year Tuesday at the Louisiana Classic after firing a final-round score of 70.

KU women hope to extend season in Oklahoma City

Read live game updates from tonight’s 8:30 tip between KU and Oklahoma State at the Big 12 Tournament, live from Oklahoma City.

Jayhawks await OU-ISU winner

Here’s what the Kansas men do know: they have the No. 1 seed in the upcoming Big 12 tournament, and they’ve earned a bye in the first round. What the Jayhawks don’t know is who their opponent will being round two.

KU women upset OSU in first round of Big 12 tourney

The Kansas women opened play in the Big 12 Tournament down in Oklahoma City this evening against Oklahoma State.

Tournament wins key for Jayhawks’ chance for No. 1 seed

A 27-4 record, a Big 12 conference regular season championship, a top-4 ranking and a top 25 RPI rating may not be enough to earn the Kansas men’s basketball team a No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament. However, three wins this weekend and it would be hard to deny the Jayhawks a top seed in the big dance.

Kansas baseball pummels Tabor, 18-2

It was a beautiful afternoon for some baseball as the Kansas Jayhawks took on Tabor College at Hoglund Ballpark today.

Big 12 suspends pair

Colorado’s Xavier Silas and Nebraska’s Ryan Anderson were suspended one game each for fighting, meaning Silas will miss the opening round of the Big 12 tournament.

KU women still hungry

Stuffed literally, Jayhawks hope to feast on OSU in Big 12 opener

If Kansas University’s women’s basketball players aren’t still stuffed tonight, they might have a chance.

KU notebook: Charities worrisome

Darnell Jackson figures he’s darn near perfect from the free-throw line at practice.

Woodland leads; KU men’s golfers in 11th

Kansas University senior Gary Woodland shot a 9-under score of 135 and leads the Louisiana Classics after Monday’s first day.

Wright earns another first-team nod

Kansas University forward selected for Associated Press All-Big 12 honors

Kansas University sophomore Julian Wright, who was named to the coaches’ all-Big 12 team Sunday, made it a clean sweep Monday when he was tapped first-team all-league by the Associated Press.

Kansas ascends to No. 2

Kansas University’s basketball team continues its late-season climb in the Associated Press poll.

Hansbrough’s nose broken after all

North Carolina standout probable for ACC tournament

Tyler Hansbrough probably will play in the Atlantic Coast Conference tournament despite breaking his nose during the blood-filled final seconds of No. 8 North Carolina’s victory over 14th-ranked Duke on Sunday.

Woodling: Better days beckon Jayhawks

Here’s an unusual coincidence certain to cool the cockles of many a Sunflower State denizen’s heart: In last fall’s Big 12 Conference volleyball standings, Kansas University and Kansas State tied for last place. Then, during the winter women’s basketball chase, darned if the Wildcats and Jayhawks didn’t do the same thing.

Coaches lobby for PR

Billy Gillispie says the Big 12 office needs to start trumpeting the league’s case for five and six teams in the upcoming NCAA Tournament.

Perry paces NU past Cowboys

Marcus Perry walked onto the court Monday with his 1-year-old daughter Akayla in his arms, bringing his family with him as he was honored on Nebraska’s senior day.

Durant says ankle to be OK

Texas freshman Kevin Durant said his left ankle feels “pretty good” and should be ready for the Big 12 tournament.

Freshman finally finds her form

KU's McCray works her way into pivotal role after rough start

One by one, Kansas University women’s basketball players descend from the upper level inside the Anderson Family Strength Center.

Kansas Jayhawk Julian Wright honored today

KU sophomore Julian Wright has earned First Team All-Big 12 honors in both major polls, today. Julian is the only Jayhawk to do so.

Kevin Durant lived up to his big billing at Allen Fieldhouse

Kevin Durant, the most talked about player in the country, came in to Allen Fieldhouse with a lot of pressure on his back - and he responded with 25 amazing first half points finishing with 32 points.

Jayhawks ready for tournament play

With 31 games in the books, the Jayhawks pulled off an impressive 27-4 record to earn them the Big 12 title, but now it’s tournament time and the Jayhawks look to extend their winning ways.

Wright named Big 12 Co-Player of the Week

Thanks to a double-double average over two games in the past week, Kansas University sophomore forward Julian Wright was named the Big 12 co-Player of the Week today, sharing honors with Texas freshman Kevin Durant. Wright is the only Jayhawk to earn either the Player of the Week or Rookie of the Week honors this season, doing so for the second time. He was first named POW on Nov. 27.

Huggins lone winner among conference’s new coaches

At the end of a Big 12 Conference regular season brimming with story lines and intriguing subplots, Kansas University (27-4 overall, 14-2 Big 12) finished one game in front of No. 8 Texas A&M (25-5, 13-3) and two in front of Kevin Durant and the Texas (22-8, 12-4).

Conference honors six Jayhawks

Kansas University sophomores Brandon Rush and Julian Wright, the Big 12’s co-Preseason Players of the Year, have been tapped first-team all conference in a vote of league coaches.

Kansas right at home

A month later, KU baseball wins home opener

Finally! Nearly a month after Kansas University’s baseball squad was scheduled to play its original home opener, the Jayhawks finally took the field at Hoglund Ballpark on Sunday - in a doubleheader against Western Illinois.

Keegan: Keegan: Kansas’ secret weapon

Somewhere on some night at some stage of the NCAA Tournament, a player listed way down on some team’s stat sheet will do something that brands him an unlikely March hero for the rest of his life.

KU softball tumbles, 1-0

The Kansas University softball team lost a 1-0 decision to Great Western Downtown Plaza Classic host Tulsa on Sunday and finished second in the tourney.

Bloody finale for UNC, Duke

Heels win; Devils' Henderson suspended for foul

Blood poured from his nose and onto his lip, chin and the court. The latest bruised face of college basketball’s nastiest rivalry belongs to North Carolina’s Tyler Hansbrough.

NCAA backtracks on rules

The NCAA screwed up. That’s what Football Rules Committee chair Michael Clark bluntly admitted last month, when the committee went back to the drawing board and released new rules that likely will go into effect for this fall’s college football season.

KU baseball wins first home game of season

Play ball - finally! After numerous delays due to bad weather, the first home game of the 2007 KU baseball season took place today at Hoglund Ballpark.

Rush, Wright earn top conference honors

After winning the Big 12 regular season team title yesterday at Allen Fieldhouse, some individual Jayhawks were honored today as the League announced the coaches picks for the All-Big 12 team.

Wright, Rush named to first team All-Big 12

Kansas University sophomores Brandon Rush and Julian Wright, who were named the Big 12 Conference’s Preseason Co-Players of the Year, Sunday were honored as first team All-Big 12 performers. Texas freshman Kevin Durant, who scored 32 points in a 90-86 loss at KU Saturday, was named the league’s Player of the Year.

Extra Minutes: Kansas 90, Texas 86

Tying up loose ends from Saturday’s wildly-entertaining game in Allen Fieldhouse. Making the postgame festivities even more enjoyable for the Jayhawks was the way in which they got there. KU came back from a blistering Texas first half, finishing the game with a 52.4 field goal percentage, led by a career-high five three-pointers from Mario Chalmers. Russell Robinson hit three of them, too, which was also a career-best. Oh yeah, and Texas’ Kevin Durant wasn’t too shabby in what will probably be his only Fieldhouse visit.

Fear tactics

To the editor: Ignorance and fear. These are the tools of the self-proclaimed moral majority, including Phill Kline and Rep. Lance Kinzer. Using public ignorance and fear, these men try to intimidate people into complying with their narrow religious conservative agenda.

Huskies’ defense, post play overwhelm UCLA

Jon Brockman couldn’t stop complimenting UCLA, from its bevy of talented weapons to the Bruins’ suffocating defense.

KSU wins finale, looks to avoid return home

No offense to the home fans, but Cartier Martin really doesn’t want to play in Bramlage Coliseum again.

Wissel earns NCAA spot

Kansas University’s Colby Wissel ran a career-best 7 minutes, 53.08 seconds in the men’s 3,000 meters Saturday at the Alex Wilson Invitational in South Bend, Ind., to qualify automatically for the NCAA Indoor Championships.

Judge enjoys courtside company

Two of Lawrence’s most powerful residents have a friendship that’s taken a visible, front-row seat this basketball season.

Grand slams key KU sweep

The Kansas University softball team swung hot bats in both games of Saturday’s doubleheader at the Great Western Downtown Plaza Classic, scoring a combined 17 runs in a sweep of North Texas at the Donna J. Hardesty Sports Complex.

Kansas basketball notebook

Kevin Durant, who is just 18 years old, has quite a presence about him.

Big 12 champs!

1,900 wins, plus No. 1 seed in OKC

Jayhawk fans have a lot to be proud of after Kansas University’s 90-86 win over Texas on Saturday. The victory marks the team’s 1,900th all-time victory and makes them outright Big 12 regular season champs this year.

‘Takeover mode’ hits Chalmers

Kansas guards 'terrific'

The best way to sum up Mario Chalmers’ relationship with the three-point shot during the Jayhawks’ 16-game Big 12 Conference schedule is that of a true labor of love. For Russell Robinson, it was merely a flirtation.

KU tennis team tops ISU

The Kansas University women’s tennis team won five of six singles matches and swept all three doubles contests to earn a 6-1 victory Saturday against host Iowa State.

Oread Books announces book signing

Roderick Townley, author of the just-published young adult novel “The Red Thread: A Novel in Three Incarnations,” will give a lecture and reading, and sign books in an appearance from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. March 13 at Oread Books, Kansas University.

OUTRIGHT!

Jayhawks celebrate title win

Bill Self snipped the last four strands of net and forcibly tore the twine from the rim, putting the finishing touches on a joyous celebration Saturday afternoon in Allen Fieldhouse.

Keegan: Keegan: Durant at best in best

A holy man doesn’t walk into St. Peter’s Basilica and start sinning. Tiger Woods doesn’t shank shots at Augusta. Pavarotti doesn’t hit a flat note inside Carnegie Hall.

Durant had to ‘suck it up’

Kevin Durant returned from the locker room in the second half with a slight limp - and received a standing ovation in Allen Fieldhouse.

A&M center shows off

Mom watches as Aggie sets career mark

Antanas Kavaliauskas’ mother traveled more than 5,000 miles from Lithuania to see him play college basketball for the first time.

1,900th win lands KU No. 1 seed in OKC

Mario Chalmers led KU with 21 points coming off of five three-pointers. Julian Wright finished with 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Russell Robinson chipped in a season-high 17 points. Kevin Durant led all scorers with 32 points, while Augustin had 19 points and 13 assists. It goes down as the 1,900th win all-time for KU, and gives the Jayhawks an outright Big 12 title to go with the top seed in next week’s Big 12 tournament.

Salukis keep adding to resume

Rather than worry about the NCAA selection process, Southern Illinois is sticking to what it can control.

Rude shirts a disservice to KU spirit, group says

A group of Kansas University athletes is hoping a popular T-shirt that disparages the University of Missouri will disappear from the stands at Allen Fieldhouse next basketball season.

Mangino a grandfather

Samantha Mangino Hardy, daughter of Kansas football Mark Mangino, and her husband, David Hardy, announced the birth Wednesday of Gabriella Mangino Hardy at Overland Park Regional Medical Center.

KU’s Mosley named Big 12 second team

Shaquina Mosley wasn’t a starter in Kansas University’s first 12 women’s basketball games.

Kansas softball wins 2 at Tulsa

Kansas University’s softball team collected 22 hits and two victories on the opening day of the Great Western Downtown Plaza Classic on Friday.

Curtain ready to rise on Durant show

Big stakes surround talented Texas freshman's first - and perhaps only - Allen Fieldhouse visit

Arguably the best player in the Big 12 Conference, if not the entire country, will make his first - and what figures to be his last - appearance in Allen Fieldhouse today.

Gary Bedore’s KU basketball notebook

Kansas University coach Bill Self said Russell Robinson, who has been hobbled by a right foot injury, would start at point guard today. Robinson started the first 28 games; Sherron Collins started the past two. Robinson has been able to practice full-time this week.

Big 12 title on line

Top seed also could be at stake

It’s pretty simple, really. If Kansas University’s basketball team beats Texas in an 11 a.m. tipoff today at Allen Fieldhouse, the Jayhawks will be crowned undisputed Big 12 regular- season champs. They’ll grab the top seed for next week’s Big 12 tournament and continue their quest toward a possible No. 1 seed in the NCAAs.

KU baseball moved; Tabor game added

Today’s Kansas-Western Illinois baseball game at Hoglund Ballpark has been postponed to 3 p.m. Monday because of cold weather.

KU football loses aide to Louisville

Kansas University football assistant coach Mike Mallory is leaving Lawrence after just one year to take an assistant-coaching job at Louisville.

A group of KU student-athletes hope to see the end of a popular T-shirt

KU’s student-athlete advisory committee is working on a plan to create and distribute an alternative to the infamous T-shirt that contains an implied obscenity directed at KU rival Missouri.

KU hopes to contain Durant in Allen Fieldhouse

KU head coach Bill Self predicted this preseason that Kevin Durant would be an amazing player and now he hopes his Jayhawks can stop him Saturday morning for sole possession of the Big 12 title.

Mallory leaves KU staff for position at Louisville

Kansas University football assistant coach Mike Mallory is leaving Lawrence after just one year to take an assistant-coaching job at Louisville. The hiring needs to clear some minor hurdles before it’s official, a Louisville spokesperson said Friday night. Mallory will coach the secondary at Louisville under new head coach Steve Kragthorpe.

Tar Heels fall to Georgia Tech

Georgia Tech hardly resembled the team that North Carolina blew out six weeks ago in Chapel Hill.

Jayhawk women top MU

Season finale victory lifts KU out of cellar

Shaquina Mosley is questionable no more.

KU tennis match at Iowa called

Today’s Kansas University tennis match against Iowa in Iowa City will not be played because of a winter storm. No makeup date has been announced.

Huggins not secure with KSU credentials

Kansas State already has 20 wins and the assurance of its highest finish ever in the Big 12 Conference.

Durant ranks among all-time college greats

KU's Manning defers to Longhorns' superstar

Some college basketball experts have compared ultra-talented Texas freshman Kevin Durant with the leading scorer in Kansas University history. That’s right: Danny Manning.

Mayer: Mayer: Others as flawed as Kansas

This Kansas University basketball team doesn’t do this, and doesn’t do that; its inconsistency can drive its coaches and fans nutty. But what these Jayhawks can do is win KU’s third NCAA championship because most all the other alleged contenders are as unpredictable.

Scott recipient of Big 12 honor

Kansas University freshman Jordan Scott was named Big 12 Male Track and Field Freshman of the Year, the conference announced Thursday.

Kansas softball squad on the road again

On the road again. That’s the mantra of Kansas University’s softball team.

ISU wins for first time at Tech

Megan Ronhovde scored 18 points to lead Iowa State to a 72-68 women’s basketball victory over Texas Tech on Thursday night.

KU preparing for a Big 12 showdown against Texas

With sole possession of the Big 12 title on the line, the stakes have gotten even higher for KU’s upcoming battle against Texas this Saturday.

Jayhawks guaranteed share of Big 12 title

KU can claim crown outright with victory Saturday against Texas in Allen Fieldhouse

Kansas University’s men’s basketball team has wrapped up at least a share of the school’s 50th conference championship.

OSU suspends Boggan

Cowboys senior punished for head-butt

Oklahoma State coach Sean Sutton suspended leading scorer Mario Boggan on Wednesday for a head-butting incident in the Cowboys’ 84-70 win against Kansas State the previous night.

KU women land four on academic team

Kansas University had four players named to the Academic All-Big 12 Conference Women’s Basketball Team. Junior Jamie Boyd and sophomore Ivana Catic were selected to the first team, while junior Taylor McIntosh and sophomore Marija Zinic were named to the second team.

News

Saturday, March 31

KU safety finally fully recovered from nagging ankle injury

Gators, Buckeyes most experienced foul shooters

Keegan: Keegan: Ratings hold up quite well

KU recruit had plenty of banter for future Big 12 foes during McDonald's week

Forget Cinderella - it's the big boys' time

Friday, March 30

Defending champs arrive in Atlanta as speculation surrounds coach's future

Coaches to discuss possible court changes

Deal reportedly worth $2 million per year

Ruptured tendon in knee sidelines Huskers' star cornerback

Mayer: Mayer: Big 12 upturn ahead

Thursday, March 29

Big men have played big roles in four finalists' fortunes

Oklahoma center honored for second straight year

Keegan: Keegan: Happy feet bad for QBs

Rutgers, LSU make surprise runs to Cleveland

Wednesday, March 28

NBA Scout picks top players draft

Tennessee tops Mississippi 98-62

Keegan: Keegan: McD’s a poor predictor

Tuesday, March 27

Self discusses loss, draft prospects

Woodling: Woodling: Juco visit brings back memories

Talented freshmen joined on first team by Wisconsin's Tucker, Texas A&M's Law, UCLA's Afflalo

Monday, March 26

March Madness thrives on the unexpected, not the predictable Final Four march of top seeds

Keegan: Keegan: Future bright for KU

Explanations elusive for offensive collapse

Paris has 31 points, 20 boards in loss

Sunday, March 25

KU devastated after season-ending loss

Jayhawk fans optimistic about next year's season

Keegan: Keegan: UCLA had edge in poise

Freshman star larger than life in win against Memphis

Duke star misses tying free-throw tries

KU starter stymies Cowboys in bounce-back win

Late homers save KU in extra-inning win

Rush in no rush; others say they'll return

Saturday, March 24

KU falls to UCLA, 68-55

Game just hours away

South Region finalist Buckeyes, Tigers so similar, but still oh so different

Wright still plans to return; others put off decision

KU sophomore has tendency to break out after poor performances