Stories for October 2018

Game day: Kansas basketball vs. Washburn (exhibition)

A look at some of the keys for top-ranked Kansas in tonight's second and final exhibition game of the 2018-19 season against Washburn at Allen Fieldhouse. By Matt Tait

KU volleyball rebounds with win at West Virginia

The University of Kansas volleyball team snapped its three-game skid with a four-set victory over West Virginia (25-22, 21-25, 30-28, 25-13) Wednesday night at the WVU Coliseum.

Tom Keegan: Even Bill Self wonders what preseason No. 1 really means

Kansas carries college basketball’s No. 1 preseason ranking into Tuesday night’s season-opener vs. No. 10 Michigan State in Indianapolis, and its 16th-year head coach posed an interesting question about the ranking.

'Incredible catch': WR Stephon Robinson helps Jayhawks improve on 3rd downs

Out-gained by close to 200 yards in an upset home win over TCU this past Saturday, a few flashbulb moments for the Kansas football offense provided just enough for the Jayhawks to leave David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium victorious. And no play on a crucial third quarter series seemed as improbable as a 31-yard catch by Stephon Robinson. By Benton Smith

Washburn coach Brett Ballard eager for opportunity to return to Allen Fieldhouse

Jayhawk, Ichabods set for exhibition clash at 7 p.m. Thursday

Washburn basketball coach Brett Ballard has known about Thursday’s exhibition clash with his alma mater for about 18 months, but he and his former boss have hardly talked about it. By Matt Tait

Tom Keegan: Snappy Wirtel family on both sidelines and in stands Saturday

The better the long snapper, the less likely anybody is to recognize his name.

Notebook: Jeff Love promoted to full-time KU football assistant

When Kansas football coach David Beaty fired his team’s second-year offensive coordinator, Doug Meacham, during the Jayhawks’ bye week earlier this month, the move opened up a spot for a full-time assistant on the staff. Beaty said Tuesday during his weekly press conference he used that opportunity to promote Jeff Love, already working for the program as its director of football technology. By Benton Smith

Redshirt reversal: QB Miles Kendrick could sit out rest of way

What a difference a few weeks can make. It turns out Kansas quarterback Miles Kendrick just may end up sitting out the rest of this season after all. By Benton Smith

KU now refuses to share info with public on $1.5M in Adidas payments; last week it said lack of personnel was reason for delay

KU accepted $1.5 million in extra payments from the shoe company at the center of a college basketball corruption case, but now KU is refusing to release documents detailing the conditions attached to the money.

Tom Keegan: Udoka's time will come, just not Thursday

The day before Kansas played Emporia State at Allen Fieldhouse in the exhibition opener, coach Bill Self spoke in interesting fashion about the contrasting styles of his two tallest starters, Udoka Azubuike and Dedric Lawson.

KU football alternate uniforms to honor World War II veterans

Kansas football players, coming off a home win against TCU, will don special alternate uniforms that honor World War II veterans the next time they take the field at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium.

'That's just what he does': Kansas RB Pooka Williams making crucial plays in passing game, too

It didn’t matter Saturday against TCU that Kansas running back Pooka Williams recorded a season-low 33 rushing yards on 11 carries. By Benton Smith

KU sophomore Charlie Moore comfortable with whatever role team needs him to play

During Thursday’s exhibition opener against Emporia State, Kansas basketball coach Bill Self went with two freshmen starters in his backcourt instead of a couple of sophomores with starting experience. By Matt Tait

KU soccer falls to Texas on penalty kicks

KANSAS CITY, MO – Unlike other freshmen at Kansas, Sarah Peters is familiar with playing on Children’s Mercy Victory Field. Peters played in her high school state final for Lee’s Summit North less than a year before Sunday. Coincidentally, North sat just over 11 miles away from the goal in which she stood.

Tom Keegan: Gap between KU and K-State narrowing in two sports

Kansas has the better basketball program, Kansas State the superior football team. It’s been that way nearly every year for more than a quarter of a century.

Jayhawks down Tigers in overtime

It took five extra minutes of action, but the University of Kansas women's basketball team came away with a 90-83 victory over Fort Hays State Sunday afternoon at Allen Fieldhouse.

Jayhawks savor TCU win and chance to celebrate

The last time the Kansas football team actually got to celebrate a Big 12 victory, linebacker Joe Dineen felt more like a spectator than an active participant. So when the Jayhawks defeated TCU, 27-26, on Saturday at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, Dineen reveled in taking some ownership in the on-field and locker room parties that followed. By Benton Smith

Tom Keegan: Jayhawks rewarded by sticking with Bender at QB

If he had it to do over again, Kansas senior quarterback Peyton Bender would have thrown his intentional-safety pass with his back to the field higher so that time would have elapsed, instead of leaving one long second on the game clock.

Notebook: Larry Brown joins KU greats in Ring of Honor

For the third time this season, the name of a former KU football great joined the Ring of Honor inside David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. A tight end for the Jayhawks from 1967-70, Larry Brown watched his name go up on the north end of the old venue during a ceremony Saturday, in between the first and second quarters of the Jayhawks’ 27-26 victory over TCU.

KU football stuns TCU behind late-game theatrics

With a rare Kansas football victory at stake, senior quarterback Peyton Bender had to run. Backward. And then throw the ball out of the back of the end zone. And if all of that went perfectly, the Jayhawks would beat TCU Saturday at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium.

KU volleyball swept at Baylor

The Kansas volleyball team dropped its third consecutive match on Saturday in Waco, Texas, falling to Baylor 25-21, 25-21, 25-17.

Kansas knocks off TCU to end Big 12 losing skid

The University of Kansas football team ended another streak.

How deeply will NCAA dig into KU's recruiting? That question and others still loom after trial

The trial is over but the questions aren’t for the University of Kansas and its involvement in a college basketball recruiting scandal that may well send some former KU partners to prison.

Kansas basketball turns to technology for advanced player data, development

KU used the ShotTracker system during Thursday's exhibition win over Emporia State

The Kansas men’s basketball program, for the first full season, is using the growing ShotTracker technology as a part of its daily routine. But there’s much more to KU's increased use of technology than the ShotTracker name suggests. By Matt Tait

Gameday Breakdown: KU football vs. TCU

Who will start at quarterback for Kansas this week? Who knows? With five games left in the season, KU still doesn’t have a definitive starting QB. If the Jayhawks want to nab a win or two before 2018 has come and gone, they had better land on one now. By Benton Smith

Tom Keegan: Devon Dotson hits ground running in debut

Kansas freshman Devon Dotson did a nice job of summing up the duties of a point guard after helping Kansas put a 93-55 beating on Division II Emporia State in a Thursday night exhibition at Allen Fieldhouse.

Dedric Lawson drops 31 points to guide Kansas past ESU

A couple of weeks ago, at KU’s annual media day, Kansas basketball coach Bill Self said power forward Dedric Lawson needed “to be able to play everywhere” for the new-look Jayhawks. On Thursday night, in his first actual game in a Kansas uniform, Lawson obliged. By Matt Tait

KU stuns No. 13 West Virginia in overtime

Katie McClure's golden goal in the eighth minute of overtime closed out the regular season on a high note as the University of Kansas women's soccer team upset No. 13 West Virginia, 1-0, Thursday night inside Dick Dlesk Stadium.

Notebook: Grimes, Dotson earn starting nod in exhibition opener

On Wednesday, at Big 12 media day, Kansas coach Bill Self said Udoka Azubuike, Dedric Lawson and Lagerald Vick would be in the starting lineup for his team’s exhibition opener on Thursday night.

Dedric Lawson helps No. 1 Kansas roll in exhibition opener

After weeks of most Kansas basketball discussions centering more on potential trial outcomes than lineups, the Jayhawks got to lose themselves inside a packed Allen Fieldhouse on Thursday night. By Benton Smith

Kansas on top in preseason USA Today Coaches Poll

Three days after learning it would enter the 2018-19 season with the No. 1 ranking in the Associated Press Top 25 poll, Kansas completed the sweep.

Gameday: Kansas basketball is back

Jayhawks open season with exhibition vs. Emporia State

A look at some of the keys for top-ranked Kansas in tonight's exhibition opener vs. Emporia State at Allen Fieldhouse. By Matt Tait

In wake of basketball corruption trial's verdict, Self says his staff has done nothing wrong

After declining to comment on the happenings in the federal trial on basketball corruption most of the day Wednesday, University of Kansas basketball coach Bill Self that evening denied that his staff had done anything wrong when recruiting players.

Complete Bill Self statement from Oct. 24, 2018

The following is the complete statement read by Kansas men's basketball coach Bill Self on Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2018, in response to the completion of the trial on corruption in college basketball that concluded Wednesday afternoon with a guilty verdict. Self read the statement inside the Allen Fieldhouse media room on Wednesday night.

Tom Keegan: Jury rules Adidas defrauds KU, strangely happy news for 'victims'

Kansas City, Mo. — Adidas, apparel partner of the University of Kansas athletic department, was found guilty of defrauding the university, and it was the best news the nation’s No. 1-ranked college basketball program had heard in months.

Notebook: Self's expectations for young squad as high as ever entering exhibition opener

Despite a host of new faces and the absence of some key veterans, Kansas coach Bill Self has remained the same coach as he always has been during the early stages of the 2018-19 season. By Matt Tait

Tied for KU's all-time lead in TFLs, Joe Dineen maintains slim lead over Daniel Wise

When Joe Dineen sacked Texas Tech quarterback Alan Bowman in the final minute of the second quarter on Saturday, it didn’t occur to him that he had just tied Kansas football great Wilie Pless for the all-time program lead in career tackles for loss. By Benton Smith

KU says it's evaluating options on Adidas contract, doesn't answer whether it will conduct independent investigation of recruiting practices

The University of Kansas is continuing to evaluate whether it wants to be in partnership with Adidas after two of the company’s former employees were convicted Wednesday on fraud charges related to a pay-for-play college basketball recruiting scheme.

3 convicted of fraud in college basketball corruption trial

An Adidas executive and two other insiders from the high-stakes world of college basketball recruiting were convicted Wednesday in a corruption case that prosecutors said exposed the underbelly of the sport.

Self again declines to answer questions about college basketball recruiting scandal

During a breakout session with reporters Wednesday at Big 12 Media Day, KU coach Bill Self again declined to comment on a trial aiming to tackle corruption in college basketball even though the verdict of the case was released at the end of the hour-long session at the Sprint Center.

KU cites lack of personnel for delay in providing records related to unexplained $1.5M in Adidas payments

As former Adidas executives face a federal jury, KU continues to delay the release of documents that could shed light on the university’s financial relationship with the now controversial apparel company.

Big 12 commissioner says he hasn't talked to Self about recruiting allegations

Big 12 Commissioner Bob Bowlsby said at the conference’s media day Wednesday morning that he spoke with KU coach Bill Self Tuesday evening but did not ask him about allegations that families of University of Kansas players received cash payments to attend KU.

Silvio De Sousa will not play in KU's exhibition opener

Kansas City, Mo. — Kansas sophomore Silvio De Sousa will not play in Thursday’s exhibition opener against Emporia State in Allen Fieldhouse and a timeline for his return remains unknown. By Matt Tait

Big 12 tournament to stay put; league also announces series with Big East

The Big 12 men’s basketball tournament will remain in Kansas City. Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby made two announcements during his brief press conference at the Big 12 Media Day Wednesday morning at the Sprint Center, one of which included that the conference has selected Kansas City to serve as the host site for the Phillips 66 men’s and women’s basketball championships in a multi-year agreement that will run from 2021-24.

Tom Keegan: Daylon Charlot finally put on stage

The euphoria of the Kansas football fan base when David Beaty landed a pair of Alabama transfers reached offseason levels that it hadn’t experienced since Charlie Weis’ rapid-fire announcements of a pair of five-star quarterbacks transferring to KU.

Jury deliberates 2nd day with no verdict in college basketball corruption trial

A jury has completed a second day of deliberations without a verdict in the trial of three men accused of defrauding schools by giving cash to families of college basketball recruits.

Beaty on 2019 recruiting class: 'We don't have a whole lot to give'

Either during college football’s early December signing period or on National Signing Day in February, one would have to believe, some football players will join lone wolf Cole Mueller, the only prospect from the Class of 2019 currently committed to the University of Kansas. By Benton Smith

'Heated' about targeting ejection, KU's Mike Lee eager to return to action

Injured for the Kansas football team’s previous game, high-energy safety Mike Lee arrived at Jones AT & T Stadium, in Lubbock, Texas, this past Saturday even more eager to play than usual. But Lee’s day ended abruptly with 32 seconds to go in the first half when the safety drew a targeting penalty and an automatic ejection for his hit on Antoine Wesley after the Tech receiver made a catch. By Benton Smith

TCU down 2 offensive starters for game at KU

When TCU plays this Saturday at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, the Horned Frogs will be without two regular starters at key offensive positions as they take on the reeling Jayhawks.

Tom Keegan: Even No. 1 preseason ranking can't lift cloud hovering over KU basketball

News broke Monday that Kansas earned the distinction as preseason No. 1 in the Associated Press men's college basketball poll.

KU offense's 'procedural' improvements don't lead to results

In David Beaty’s first game this season serving as head coach, offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, the Kansas football offense never put his team in position to challenge Texas Tech on Saturday. According to those involved, the only thing that seemed to go well for the offense was the play-calling process. By Benton Smith

Jayhawks enter 2018-19 season ranked No. 1 in AP poll

For the third time in the history of the Associated Press Top 25 men’s college basketball poll, Kansas will enter a season ranked in the top spot. By Matt Tait

Beaty will 'look at who has the best week' at QB for KU

It remains to be seen whether Peyton Bender, who played every snap at quarterback for the Kansas football team at Texas Tech this past weekend, will retain his starting job for another week. By Benton Smith

Jury takes the reins in college hoops trial

After a three-day break following closing arguments last Thursday, the federal trial on corruption in college basketball will be in the hands of the jury beginning today. By Matt Tait

Tom Keegan: Why does Carter Stanley keep drawing the short stick?

If you found watching Kansas football on television even more excruciating than usual Saturday, consider how lucky you were compared to redshirt junior quarterback Carter Stanley.

No substitutions: Kansas QB Peyton Bender allowed to play through mistakes

A lack of change actually represented a shift in one offensive approach for the struggling Kansas football team in Saturday’s road loss at Texas Tech. For the first time this season the Jayhawks navigated an entire game started by Peyton Bender without rotating the quarterback from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., in and out of the lineup or going away from him completely. By Benton Smith

Notebook: Kansas DB Mike Lee ejected in loss to Texas Tech

After missing the Kansas football team’s trip to West Virginia due to injury, junior Mike Lee returned to his starting spot in the defensive backfield Saturday at Texas Tech. By Benton Smith

New lows: Jayhawks deal with disgust, frustration in 48-16 loss at Texas Tech

Lubbock, Texas — At various stages of the fourth quarter during another Kansas football loss, some heads on the Jayhawks’ east sideline hung low. By Benton Smith

KU offense falters coming off bye week and midseason coordinating change

A midseason change at offensive coordinator did little to spark the Kansas football team in its first game since head coach David Beaty fired Doug Meacham and named himself O.C. and quarterbacks coach. The Jayhawks’ offense only produced one field goal by halftime, setting up a 21-point intermission deficit on the way to a 48-16 road loss. By Benton Smith

Record book battle: Both Joe Dineen and Daniel Wise closing in on KU's career TFL mark

Long before their final season in Lawrence began, Kansas football’s standout redshirt seniors, Daniel Wise and Joe Dineen, learned they ranked among the program’s all-time best in career tackles for loss. And with Dineen, a linebacker, leading Wise, a defensive lineman, by 3.0 TFLs, the race to the top, and former KU linebacker Willie Pless’s record of 41 (from 1982-85) was on. By Benton Smith

Gameday Breakdown: KU football at Texas Tech

David Beaty fired offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Doug Meacham during the bye week and took over Meacham’s responsibilities. Now is the fourth-year Kansas head coach’s first chance to prove that move is one capable of invigorating his team. By Benton Smith

KU junior Udoka Azubuike named to Abdul-Jabbar watchlist

After learning that he had earned a preseason all-Big 12 honorable mention nod from the league's coaches earlier this week, Kansas center Udoka Azubuike found his name as one of 20 on the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Center of the Year Award watchlist, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame announced Friday.

Jayhawks the unanimous pick of Big 12 coaches to win 15th straight conference title

The Kansas men’s basketball team, for the eighth consecutive year, is the preseason pick of the Big 12 coaches to win the 2018-19 Big 12 title. By Matt Tait

Chancellor won't say whether he still has 'complete confidence' that KU follows recruiting rules

As a federal corruption trial has made new allegations regarding the recruiting practices of the University of Kansas, Chancellor Douglas Girod is no longer willing to say he has “complete confidence” in the university’s staff to follow recruiting rules.

KU's Dedric Lawson named to Karl Malone watchlist

Another day, another Kansas basketball player added to a preseason college basketball watchlist. By Matt Tait

KU football's 2019 schedule finalized

Next season will feature 2 bye weeks

What exactly the Kansas football team’s lineups and coaching staff will look like by the time the 2019 season gets here is anyone’s guess at this point. As of Thursday, though, with the Big 12 unveiling next year's football schedule, we now all know the dates on which the Jayhawks will be playing on the forthcoming calendar. By Benton Smith

KU's win streak snapped in Manhattan

Over the past month, No. 22-ranked Kansas leaned on its defense to rattle off nine-straight victories.

Defense attorney argues Bill Self knew about payments to families of KU players

A defense attorney in the trial on corruption in college basketball argued Thursday that University of Kansas coach Bill Self knew about payments from Adidas to highly sought recruits to get them to play for KU, according to an ESPN report.

As college basketball corruption trial comes to a close, KU could be facing several NCAA code violations

Recruiting “help” from Adidas officials could turn into NCAA compliance problems for the University of Kansas, even if KU coaches didn’t know of any payments to players, a former top NCAA official said.

Jayhawks: Bye week 'beneficial' ahead of 6-game stretch to close season

As far as bye weeks go, the Kansas football team’s became far more eventful than most when head coach David Beaty fired offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Doug Meacham during the Jayhawks’ break from their 12-game schedule. But according to the players who went through it, the midseason interruption also served its intended purpose. By Benton Smith

KU's Dedric Lawson, Quentin Grimes earn Big 12 preseason honors

KU junior Udoka Azubuike also mentioned

If someone is going to end the Kansas men’s basketball team’s streak of consecutive Big 12 regular season titles at 14, they’re going to have to go through the conference’s preseason newcomer and freshman of the year to do it. By Matt Tait

Tom Keegan: Does Kansas have a clean basketball program?

It’s reached the point where the issues that need to be addressed with the Kansas basketball program have grown beyond what’s provable and what may or may not lead to an NCAA violation.

Tom Keegan: For KU tight ends past and present, it's all about catching opportunities

The Associated Press released its midseason All-American team Tuesday afternoon, and not surprisingly, one of David Beaty’s Kansas recruits made the first-team offense.

Notebook: KU's Pooka Williams, Joe Dineen pick up midseason All-America honors

The Kansas football team’s overall struggles this season haven’t stopped some talented individuals from standing out. Both freshman running back Pooka Williams and redshirt senior linebacker Joe Dineen landed this week on national midseason All-America teams. By Benton Smith

'Not an ideal situation': Jayhawks vague on offensive changes after Meacham's firing

Bender once again starting QB

After a complete offseason of working directly with Doug Meacham, plus six weeks worth of regular season practices, meetings and scheming with the Kansas football team’s offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, Peyton Bender and his fellow QBs showed up at Anderson Family Football Complex this past week to learn Meacham had been fired. By Benton Smith

'If that's what it takes': KU assistant coach taped by feds discussing recruit's demand for cash

A phone conversation in which University of Kansas assistant basketball coach Kurtis Townsend and former amateur coach Merl Code discussed a high-profile player’s recruitment was not admitted as evidence in the college basketball corruption trial in which Code is a defendant, but could cause problems for Townsend and the university down the road.

Tom Keegan: Stormy texting puts KU basketball on center stage at trial

What you make of the Monday revelations from the trial on corruption in college basketball very well could depend on what the giant letters in fancy font at the top of the framed diploma on your wall spell.

Long promotes former HR director

The director of human resources for Kansas Athletics since 2009, Frank Reeb was promoted to assistant athletics director, human resources, KU’s first-year athletic director, Jeff Long, announced Monday.

'We good?' 'Always': Texts between Self, fixer presented in college basketball corruption trial

Although a former Adidas consultant testified in federal court on Monday that he never told University of Kansas basketball coaches about paying the families of players, text messages between him and KU coaches Bill Self and Kurtis Townsend show they were aware of some sort of involvement in recruiting.

David Beaty: 2 questions led to his decision to fire Doug Meacham

With his Kansas football team 0-3 in the Big 12 following a 2-1 start during the less challenging nonconference portion of the schedule, head coach David Beaty decided this past Wednesday, during the Jayhawks’ bye week, to fire offensive coordinator Doug Meacham. By Benton Smith

Tom Keegan: Marcus Garrett has ugly jumper, beautiful game

Every so often, an athlete so obviously lacks a particular skill to such a degree that the image of his or her deficiency can color a fan’s nightmares. In some cases, that very same athlete is a coach’s dream.

KU soccer falls in overtime against Texas Tech

Freshman goalkeeper Sarah Peters couldn’t stand up as the Red Raiders stormed the field in celebration just a few yards in front of her. The Red Raiders scored a goal in the final 90 seconds of the match, then agin in the first 90 seconds of overtime off Kansas' own goal.

KU football's Daniel Wise answers challenge, aiming for more in final weeks

For most of the first five games of the season, Kansas defensive tackle Daniel Wise’s contributions came more schematically than statistically. According to KU head coach David Beaty, it was during the week of WVU preparation that the coach let Wise know the Jayhawks needed more. By Benton Smith

KU volleyball sweeps Texas Tech, extends winning streak to nine matches

The Kansas volleyball team extended its winning streak to nine matches by sweeping Texas Tech, 25-22, 25-22, 25-19 in Lubbock to remain in first place in the Big 12.

Gary Woodland in three-way tie for first heading into final round of CIMB Classic

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — Gary Woodland birdied the 18th hole for a 5-under 67 to move into a three-way tie for the lead with Marc Leishman and Shubhankar Sharma after three rounds of the CIMB Classic on Saturday.

Jayhawks prevail in OT, Francis reaches milestone

Eva Eliasdottir's golden goal in the second minute of overtime proved to be a crucial score for the University of Kansas women's soccer team. The score, which gave head coach Mark Francis his 250th collegiate, helped Kansas finish off a 2-1 win over TCU Friday night at Rock Chalk Park. The goal also helped the Jayhawks extend their win streak to three consecutive games.

College basketball corruption case expected to go to jury early next week

A trial aiming to tackle corruption in college basketball is expected to conclude in a matter of days.

Tom Keegan: Beaty goes from meddler to autocrat

Athletic directors in search of new head football coaches find that there are advantages and disadvantages to hiring assistant coaches to their first jobs as head coaches.

KU coaches seeking greater engagement from freshman guard Quentin Grimes

The man to whom he compared him on Wednesday, at KU’s annual media day, became the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft and, one year ago, signed a five-year contract extension worth $150 million. By Matt Tait

As allegations mount, KU mum about Adidas ties and extra $1.5M it has received from the company

The University of Kansas has seemingly increased its financial partnership with Adidas at the same time the apparel company finds itself at the center of a federal trial alleging crooked basketball recruiting practices.

Jayhawks rising ahead of schedule

Ainise Havili, Kelsie Payne and Madison Rigdon were so talented they led Kansas to its first Final Four volleyball appearance as sophomores, when Laura “Bird” Kuhn was named national assistant coach of the year.

Jayhawks young and old following KU's leadership to find where they fit

Two minutes into the first Kansas basketball media day of his career, freshman point guard Devon Dotson already had it down. By Matt Tait

Latest testimony in college basketball corruption trial goes into further details on KU's involvement

A trial aiming to tackle major college basketball corruption is beginning to detail how the families of two players received cash payments for them to attend the University of Kansas, according to multiple reporters covering the trial.

Tom Keegan: David Beaty still firing away

David Beaty almost found the right solution to the Kansas football program’s main problem. In fact, he only missed by one letter. Beaty hired himself again as offensive coordinator. He should have fired himself as head coach. By Tom Keegan

Kansas volleyball upsets No. 4 Texas

Texas volleyball coach Jerritt Elliott could only distance himself further from the net as the match went on, shaking his head in disbelief throughout the night. After receiving votes in the AVCA poll, Kansas’ showdown with No. 4 Texas was even better than advertised. Kansas upset Texas with a 3-1 win Wednesday night (25-18, 28-26, 20-25, 25-23) to earn its sixth win over Texas in program history.

Lyons, Washington earn Big 12 preseason honors

Christalah Lyons and Jessica Washington earned Preseason All-Big 12 Honorable Mention honors by the league coaches, which was announced Wednesday afternoon.

Doug Meacham out: David Beaty fires OC, hires himself for second time during rocky tenure

Fourth-year Kansas football coach David Beaty engaged his itchy trigger finger yet again Wednesday, firing offensive coordinator Doug Meacham in a two-paragraph press release. Beaty said he will handle in-game play-calling and will coach quarterbacks, duties Meacham handled for the first half of a 2-4 season.

Media Day Notebook: Chemistry, caution and early lessons all key for Kansas

One of the big reasons the 2017-18 Kansas basketball team ended its season at the Final Four in San Antonio in March was the chemistry and cohesion of the seven or eight core members of the team. By Matt Tait

KU football coach David Beaty fires offensive coordinator Doug Meacham

Kansas football coach David Beaty announced Wednesday evening that he had fired offensive coordinator Doug Meacham.

Self, Jayhawks still sorting out 2018-19 rotation

Practices began in late September. The first official game is now less than four weeks away. And Kansas basketball coach Bill Self still does not quite know how he will juggle all of that talent and depth the 2018-19 Jayhawks will bring to the floor this season. By Matt Tait

Tom Keegan: Silvio De Sousa says, 'I know I am going to play this year'

Silvio De Sousa was sitting in his assigned seat at Kansas basketball Media Day, fully decked out in his home uniform and sharing his delight at his sophomore season drawing closer.

Self declines to comment on testimony of former Adidas consultant; questions surface about KU compliance

University of Kansas basketball coach Bill Self, shortly after KU’s annual media day Wednesday, declined to comment on the testimony of former AAU coach T.J. Gassnola regarding his relationship with Kansas.

Comparisons for KU freshman David McCormack hard to come by

The first time he saw him play, Kansas coach Bill Self saw something he liked in freshman forward David McCormack. But that was more than 60 pounds ago, when McCormack, the 6-foot-10, 265-pound forward from Oak Hill Academy, weighed well over 300 pounds and used his massive body to bully opponents near the basket. Today, things are a little different. By Matt Tait

Basketball player’s father: Louisville assistant gave cash

The father of a blue-chip college basketball recruit testified Tuesday that an assistant coach at the University of Louisville gave him a secret payment of $1,300 as part of a deal to get the son to sign with the school.

KU volleyball plans to lean on defense against Texas

On the whiteboard outside the Kansas volleyball locker room of Horejsi Family Athletics Center, libero Allie Nelson wrote down three words in all caps, underlined it, and signed her name next to it as a way of letting her team know she wrote it.

Tom Keegan: KU legend John Hadl never will retire friendships made on the job

Sure, John Hadl’s name helped him to do his job so well for the Williams Fund, but his ears were an even greater tool in his former role as Kansas closer on big gifts to the athletic department.

Rookie point guard Devon Dotson starting ahead of huge shoes he's being asked to fill

While it’s unfair to expect anything close to the numbers put up by Frank Mason III and Devonte' Graham before him, KU freshman Devon Dotson could be well on his way to getting his career off to a faster start than either of those two All-Americans. By Matt Tait

Freshman guard Ochai Agbaji on pace to become KU's latest pleasant surprise

For all but the final months of his high school career, Ochai Agbaji mostly went unnoticed on the cutthroat basketball recruiting scene. By Benton Smith

Tom Keegan: Kurtis Townsend's basketball life filled with stars

So maybe it’s fitting that a basketball lifer who before ever working his first practice at KU already had crossed paths with so many basketball giants ended up here to become the longest tenured assistant coach in the history of the school’s men’s basketball program.

Hill named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week

University of Kansas junior middle blocker Zoe Hill is the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week, the league announced Monday afternoon.

KU’s starting QB situation remains uncertain at season’s midway mark

Beaty: Kendrick in contention for job, too

Headed into KU’s bye week, is it safe to say that the QB position is as up in the air as ever? By Benton Smith

Lightfoot determined to help Kansas build on recent Final Four run

Known for his buoyant personality and adrenalized reactions to any Kansas basketball highlights that play out in front of him, a downcast Mitch Lightfoot slumped at his locker inside The Alamodome this past March. By Benton Smith

'This dude can score' - KU's Charlie Moore more than just a point guard

One look at his 5-foot-11, 180-pound frame is all it takes to determine that Kansas sophomore Charlie Moore is a serious contender to fill the shoes vacated by Frank Mason III and Devonte’ Graham as the KU point guard. But don’t let the Cal transfer’s size lock you in to thinking that point guard is the only position Moore can play. By Matt Tait

Notebook: Transfers find ways to contribute for Jayhawks at WVU

The Kansas football defense spent more time in an opponent’s backfield Saturday at No. 9 West Virginia than it had in any other point during the first half of the season. One man responsible for that success was a first-time starter up front. Plus: Out of the lineup three of the previous four weeks, Mavin Saunders proved helpful in his return to action at WVU. By Benton Smith

Decommitment from Wichita TE leaves KU with 1 recruit in 2019 class

And then there was one. Just one commitment remains in place for the Kansas football program’s 2019 recruiting class as of Sunday evening. By Benton Smith

KU doubles team becomes first in program history to win ITA All-American doubles crown

Sunday’s straight-set victory, 6-3, 6-2, over No. 17 Stanford in the championship doubles match of the Riviera ITA Women’s All-American Championships in Pacific Palisades, Calif., capped a wild week of five victories in four days for KU seniors Nina Khmelnitckaia and Janet Koch.

QB Carter Stanley frustrated by struggles in loss at WVU

Morgantown, W.Va., holds more meaning for Carter Stanley than it does for most Kansas football players. So few Jayhawks felt as badly about their individual performances in Saturday’s 38-22 loss at WVU as Stanley, whose first-quarter struggles ultimately led to David Beaty replacing him in favor of Peyton Bender before the conclusion of the first quarter. By Benton Smith

Tom Keegan: Kansas football coach David Beaty safe for now

In the wake of Saturday’s closer-than-expected, 38-22 loss to West Virginia, first-year Kansas athletic director Jeff Long accommodated my request for an interview about his impressions of the football program at the halfway point of the season. Tom Keegan

Notebook: Kansas continues QB rotation against West Virginia

Morgantown, W.Va. — Carter Stanley’s second start of the season didn’t last long Saturday afternoon at Milan Puskar Stadium.

Jayhawks fail to capitalize in a 38-22 defeat

Morgantown, W. Va. — “Take Me Home, Country Roads” blared over the speakers at Milan Puskar Stadium on a sunny Saturday afternoon as West Virginia defensive lineman Reese Donahue proposed to his girlfriend, Sarah Moore, the scene playing out on the video boards above the end zones on either end of the venue. Donahue’s teammates and the WVU fans in the stands unleashed a cheer of jubilation as Moore accepted and the couple embraced.

Tom Keegan: KU defense did its part in loss to WVU

Morgantown, W.V. — The Kansas defense played with anger, born of an insult, one delivered by the opposing coach no less. The Jayhawks played as if they were tired of being the butt of jokes, fed up with not getting credit for the improvements they have made, ready to fight back and fight hard. The defense did its part Saturday in a 38-22 loss to West Virginia at Milan Puskar Stadium, where 57,419 watched a more competitive game than they imagined, but little else went right for the Jayhawks (2-5 overall, 0-3 in the Big 12).

Quick recap: Kansas falls to No. 9 West Virginia

The University of Kansas football team was unable to do enough to pull off the upset over No. 9 West Virginia. WVU led the entire contest during a 38-22 home win over KU Saturday at Milan Puskar Stadium. The Jayhawks (2-4, 0-3 Big 12) created four takeaways on the defensive end, while holding the Mountaineers (5-0, 3-0) to a season low in points scored. Kansas has dropped the previous five meetings with West Virginia

Gameday Breakdown: KU football at No. 9 West Virginia

Between new starter Carter Stanley, former starter Peyton Bender and backup Miles Kendrick (currently out with a shoulder injury), Kansas quarterbacks have thrown 147 passes without putting a single one of them in a bad enough spot to be intercepted by a defender (KU has completed 93 throws for 879 yards and eight touchdowns). By Benton Smith

Now in his 3rd season at Kansas, Azubuike willing, ready for new role

With basketball’s version of a vetting process behind him, Udoka Azubuike enters his third season at the University of Kansas in possession of an extensive range of facts and judgments surrounding his on-court strengths and weaknesses. Benton Smith

Freshman guard Quentin Grimes brings value of versatility to KU roster

A season’s worth of hype and praise was heaped onto Kansas freshman Quentin Grimes long before the smooth combo guard from Texas even thought about suiting up for his first game with the Jayhawks. By Matt Tait

Self on KU forward Dedric Lawson: 'He's the best passer we've ever had here'

Not all great passers in basketball are small guards who take the ball down the court and run the team. By Tom Keegan

Tom Keegan: Can West Virginia stop Khalil Herbert this time?

Just 53 Saturdays ago, Khalil Herbert cut around, sped past and bowled over West Virginia defenders to finish with a whopping 291 yards in a game Kansas lost, 56-34.

Father testifies on pay for play at college hoops programs

The father of a top college basketball prospect has testified that his son was offered thousands of dollars to play at several major programs.

'How many of those came from Rutgers?': Interceptions harder for Jayhawks to find in Big 12 play

Currently tied for fourth in the nation in passes intercepted, the Kansas football defense has benefited from eight different players contributing an interception. When asked about that fact at his weekly press conference, WVU head coach Dana Holgorsen interjected with a question of his own. “How many of those came from Rutgers?” By Benton Smith

KU offense in search of more points: 'I don't think 28 is enough'

When the Kansas football team got off to such a lethargic offensive start once conference play began, the Jayhawks’ four touchdowns against Oklahoma State in a 20-point loss this past week felt like progress. The truth of the matter, though, is that more often than not 28 points — the second-highest KU total in a league game in David Beaty’s time as head coach — won’t translate into a victory. By Benton Smith

KU volleyball rallies back to top WVU in 5 sets

After being within 2 points of being swept, the University of Kansas volleyball team responded with a 43-16 scoring run to dominate in a 3-2 (22-25, 22-25, 25-23, 25-9, 15-7) win over West Virginia Wednesday night. In the fifth set, when Kansas was within 2 points of victory itself, “Grove St. Party” by Waka Flocka Flame boomed over the loudspeakers, Horejsi Family Athletics Center was just getting ready to burst out in excitement and junior outside hitter Jada Burse was only starting the party on the bench.

Chris Thompson set to start rookie season on PGA Tour

Two-time University of Kansas All-American and Lawrence resident Chris Thompson tees off at 3:20 p.m. Central time Thursday in the Safeway Open, his first tournament as a member of the PGA Tour.

Former Royals pitcher, KU baseball coach Marty Pattin dies at 75

Former Kansas City Royals pitcher and University of Kansas baseball coach Marty Pattin of Lawrence died in his sleep Wednesday while visiting friends in his hometown of Charleston, Ill., according to family friends.

KU women's basketball team enters season with postseason aspirations

Jessica Washington’s return is much anticipated after the success from Christalah Lyons and Kylee Kopatich, who each averaged double digits for the University of Kansas women’s basketball team last season. Washington will slide back into the mix after missing last year with an ACL injury, which could allow the Jayhawks to have a dynamic backcourt with all three guards. Yet head coach Brandon Schneider wasn’t ready to commit to that plan during the team’s annual media day press conference Wednesday afternoon.

KU's De Sousa could be ruled ineligible, NCAA rules experts say; chances of vacating Final Four appearance less clear

Although he is not on trial, Silvio De Sousa could be ruled ineligible to play basketball for KU based on the outcome of a federal trial underway in New York, NCAA experts told the Journal-World. Less certain is whether the University of Kansas may have to forfeit some of last year’s wins and erase its Final Four appearance and conference championship from the record books. By Dylan Lysen

Witness details secret payments in college hoops recruiting

A New Jersey financial adviser-turned-bag man in a college basketball corruption scandal testified Wednesday about a clandestine mission last year to deliver an envelope with $19,400 in cash to the father of a highly sought-after prospect.

KU's Joe Dineen rated as college football's best linebacker through 5 weeks

Mention to Joe Dineen how much the evaluators at Pro Football Focus seem to love his play at linebacker and the University of Kansas redshirt senior will start laughing. So, yes, Dineen is aware of PFF’s grades, tweets and articles touting his ability. By Benton Smith

Tom Keegan: What to make of Day 1 of college hoops trial

Interesting first day of the trial on the scandal that has the potential to rock college basketball.

David Beaty: No plan to redshirt any KU football players at this juncture

KU football coach David Beaty said QB Miles Kendrick is “not at all” a redshirt candidate. In fact, Beaty added, he and his staff aren’t discussing the idea of redshirting “anybody” right now. By Benton Smith

As college basketball corruption trial opens, attorney admits client paid $20K to get De Sousa to come to KU

An attorney for an Adidas executive on trial for fraud has admitted that his client paid $20,000 to get Silvio De Sousa to attend the University of Kansas, according to a published report from an ongoing federal trial in the case.

College basketball corruption trial under way

Chancellor, other KU officials listed as potential witnesses during Monday's jury selection process

According to a Yahoo report from Dan Wetzel, jury selection in the college basketball bribery case began on Monday and names associated with the University of Kansas came up on a couple of occasions.

Tom Keegan: Ryan Willis makes big splash for Virginia Tech

Ryan Willis left the Kansas football program taking far less confidence out of it than he brought into it. He was a beaten young man in need of a fresh start.

KU lands oral commitment from 2019 point guard Issac McBride

Late Night strikes again. The Kansas men’s basketball team on Monday picked up its second commitment from the Class of 2019, when Issac “Mackey” McBride announced he would join the Jayhawks just after 5 p.m. By Matt Tait

KU's Pooka Williams named Co-Big 12 Newcomer of the Week

Another strong showing by running back Pooka Williams landed the University of Kansas freshman his second weekly Big 12 award in four games. By Benton Smith

KU hopes to have QB Miles Kendrick back available after bye week

When Carter Stanley makes his second straight start for the University of Kansas football team this coming Saturday at No. 9 West Virginia, the redshirt junior quarterback won’t be splitting any time with backup Miles Kendrick. By Benton Smith

David Beaty sticking with Carter Stanley as KU's starting QB

Following his team's home loss to Oklahoma State on Saturday, Kansas football coach David Beaty said he would need to further review quarterback Carter Stanley’s play before deciding whether the redshirt junior would remain the starter. By the time Beaty spoke on the Big 12 coaches media teleconference Monday morning, he had seen enough to keep Stanley at the top of the depth chart. By Benton Smith

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