SportsBeat KC

Bill Self held his first press conference since since being hospitalized for a heart catheterization procedure before the Big 12 tournament, and although the occasion of this year-end meeting with reporters was unlike last years when the Jayhawks won the national championship, this was also upbeat.Self spoke for more than 30 minutes on his improved health and renewed excitement for coaching. “All this did from a job standpoint was reconfirm what I love to do,” he said.And, “I need to be living in the portal.”You’ll hear all of the Self press conference on SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast. Columnist Vahe Gregorian shares his thoughts on the coach who has amassed nearly 800 victories in his career, and is well into planning for next season.Story link:How health issue clarified Kansas coach Bill Self’s view of the future (and path to it)https://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/vahe-gregorian/article274007225.html#storylink=mainstage_card Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How about a Kansas State defensive end from Lee’s Summit as the Chiefs’ first selection in the NFL Draft?Adding to the local angle, the draft will take place at Kansas City’s Union Station.Felix Anudike-Uzomah, the Big 12 defensive player of the year for the Wildcats, is the Chiefs’ first-round pick, projected by Star beat writer Herbie Teope.Mock drafts are the definition of inexact science, but over the past three seasons, Teope has called the Chiefs’ drafting of running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire (2020), Nick Bolton (2021) and George Karlaftis (2022) in one of his multiple mock drafts.Discussing the draft also provides and opportunity to look at Chiefs needs, and we do that as well.Story links:Who will the Chlefs select in the 2023 NFL Draft? Here’s The Star’s first mock draftSome Kansas City roads are starting to close for NFL Draft at end of the month Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In baseball, early results are magnified, which is why the Royals’ three-game losing streak to open the season make things more dour than had it happened in, say, July. And it’s also why, when the skid ended with Monday’s 9-5 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays, champagne flowed in the clubhouse.Well, that and the Royals were celebrating Matt Quatraro’s first victory as a manager.On today’s SportsBeat KC, reporter Pete Grathoff breaks down the very early returns of the Royals, who showed some positive signs even while dropping the opening series to the Minnesota Twins.Also discussed: The impact of baseball’s most important rules changes. At least one, the pitch clock, is having the intended impact on games. Did you notice you’re getting home sooner from the ballpark?Story link:Why Royals manager Matt Quatraro had red eyes after first MLB victoryhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/mlb/kansas-city-royals/article273932695.html#storylink=mainstage_lead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s SportsBeat KC, you’ll hear from coaches Dan Hurley of UConn and Brian Dutcher of San Diego State as they break down the game and their seasons.You’ll also hear reactions from two of the newest members of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, coaches Gene Bess of Three Rivers Community College in Poplar Bluff, Mo., and Gene Keady, the longtime Purdue coach who was a three-point letter winner at Kansas State. Interestingly, none of those sports was basketball.Story links:What will it take for charmed San Diego State to overcome powerful UConn in NCAA final?https://www.kansascity.com/sports/article273880995.html#storylink=mainstage_cardGene Keady is the latest with Kansas State ties elected to the Hall of Famehttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/article273862665.html#storylink=mainstage_card Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every sport begins a season. Only baseball has Opening Day (capital letters). As the 2023 campaign gets underway,n we talk Royals with several players and new manager Matt Quatraro. They met with reporters on Wednesday to discuss a wide range on topics from team prospects to rules changes.You’ll hear from opening Day starter Zack Greinke, along with Salvador Perez, Bobby Witt Jr., MJ Melendez, Vinnie Pasquantino and general manager J.J. Picollo.How much optimism should there be for 2023? The Royals are picked to finish at or near the bottom of the AL Central with a projected victory total of 68.5. Last or next to last in the division is where they’ve finished each season since 2018. But on Opening Day and hope springs eternal.Story links:Opening day is fertile chance for new-look Royals to show changes aren’t just cosmetichttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/vahe-gregorian/article273731645.html#storylink=mainstage_leadAny Royals optimism starts with young core. What’s reasonable to expect? Let’s dive inhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/sam-mcdowell/article273725590.html#storylink=mainstage_card Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the free agency flurry the Chiefs have had more losses than gains. Gone are wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster and Mecole Hardman and tackles Orlando Brown Jr., and Andrew Wylie, safety Juan Thornhill and defensive tackle Khalen Saunders.The Chiefs have added tackle Jawaan Taylor, defensive lineman Charles Omenihu and linebacker Drue Tranquill. Add it up, and you have today’s conversation on SportsBeat KC with Star columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell along with beat writers Herbie Teope and Jesse Newell.The Chiefs, as they’ve been doing in the Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes and Brett Veach era, are playing the long game. The moves keep them competitive and financially fit and in a position to extend a run that currently includes two Super Bowl victories and five straight trips to the AFC title game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s the time of year when hope springs eternal. Baseball season has arrived and every team had a chance at becoming a World Series champion.Right?Some have better chances than others. The Royals enter the 2023 with a new manager, general manager and remain in the early stages of John Sherman’s ownership. There is optimism for improvement, but it will be essential for Kansas City to avoid the slow starts of previous seasons.On today’s SportsBeat KC, Star columnist Sam McDowell discusses Royals and focuses on the pitching. Good teams have good bullpens, and the Royals have looked to improve there.Story link:Why the Kansas City Royals’ bullpen has most room for improvement — but with a caveathttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/sam-mcdowell/article273522060.html#storylink=mainstage_card Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So many twists and turns on the way to the Final Four. It’s enough to make you dizzy. But that’s what makes March Madness the spectacle that it is.On today’s SportsBeat KC podcast, we review the regional championship weekend that produced the Final Four field of Florida Atlantic, Connecticut, San Diego State and Miami, Fla. The title games produced remarkable drama, upsets and three newcomers to the Final Four–all but UConn.Also, there are three first-timers playing in the Final Four for the first time since 1970, and this marks the first time since seeding started in 1979 that no teams among the top three will play on basketball’s final weekend in Houston.You’ll hear from Kansas State, a program that had its best NCAA run in six years, reaching the East final before falling to Florida Atlantic. Point guard Markquis Nowell became a star of the tournament with his scoring and playmaking, and we’ll hear from him and other Wildcats from the tournament for the final time.Story link:Roster changes on the horizon but hopes remain high for Jerome Tang in Year 2https://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/article273608560.html#storylink=mainstage_lead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With another astonishing performance by its point guard Markquis Nowell, Kansas State outlasted Michigan State in overtime and has advanced to the Elite Eight, one step away from the Final Four.On today’s SportsBeat KC podcast, beat writer Kellis Robinett and columnist Vahe Gregorian break down the edge-of-your-seat East Regional semifinal, and center to it all was Nowell, who set an NCAA Tournament record with 19 assists to go along with his 20 points.Nowell’s final two assists won the game. His lob pass to Keyontae Johnson from distance, was finished with back-to-the-basket slam to break a tie, and his in-bounds pass to Ismael Massou on a clever play led to the breathing-room jumper.Great stuff all around from Nowell and the WIldcats who with a victory over Florida Atlantic on Saturday will reach the Final Four for the first time since 1964.Story link:Spontaneous or scripted? What really happened on Markquis Nowell’s daring alley-oop pass Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Missouri Tigers got reached the second round of the NCAA Tournament and were upset by Princeton. But there was nothing upsetting about Mizzou’s season.The Tigers were picked to finish 11th in the SEC. They were the No. 4 seed in the league tournament, and reached the semifinals for the first time. Missouri also won its first NCAA Tournament game in more than a decade.In all, an excellent first season in Columbia for Dennis Gates. On today’s SportsBeat KC, Star columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell discuss Missouri’s season and where Mizzou goes from here, especially from a recruiting standpoint.Story link:Mizzou’s NCAA Tournament loss to Princeton hurts but doesn’t diminish momentous seasonhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/vahe-gregorian/article273323190.html#storylink=mainstage_card Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Next season came earlier than expected for Kansas after its heart breaking loss in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.The defending national champion will bid farewell to its All-America player, Jalen Wilson, and with Gradey DIck projected by some to be an NBA Draft lottery pick, only two starters may return in point guard Dauajn Harris and big man K.J. Adams.How will Bill Self and his staff fill out the lineup and rotation next season?Beat writers Gary Bedore and Shreyas Laddha provide the first look and address the many questions for the Jayhawks in 2023-24 on today’s SportsBeat KC podcast.Story link:Dajuan Harris, KJ Adams will lead KU in 2023-24. What else is known about the roster?https://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/university-of-kansas/article273331780.html#storylink=mainstage_card Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kansas State plays in Manhattan, affectionately known as the “Little Apple.” This week, the Wildcats look to continue their NCAA Tournament winning ways in the Big Apple and Madison Square Garden.The Sweet 16 date in New York against Michigan State awaits a Kansas State team that defeated Kentucky on Sunday in Greensboro, N.C., behind the remarkable performance of point guard Markquis Nowell. Adding to the purple vibe this week: Nowell and three of his teammates are New York natives. They’re going home.On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writer Kellis Robinett discusses how K-State broke from a close game with Kentucky with a final flurry to pick up the most important victory of the season, and how the purple Wildcats, who went off as a betting underdog, overcame Oscar Tshiebwe and the blue Wildcats.After a break, you’ll hear a conversation with K-State athletic director Gene Taylor, which was recorded before the Kentucky game. He discusses the accomplishments of first-year head coach Jerome Tang and addresses the likelihood of a contract extension. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Of the 32 games in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, Kansas State’s contest with Montana State is the 30th, tipping off Friday evening. That gave us enough time to break down the Wildcats on today’s SportsBeat KC podcast with Kellis Robinett.The Wildcats are one of the most unlikely tournament teams, based on preseason expectations. They were picked to finish last in the Big 12. But in Jerome Tang’s first season, K-State came in third in the league and is a No. 3 seed taking on Montana State in the NCAA opener in Greensboro, N.C.We discuss how it came together, including the role of the team’s two returning players, Markquis Nowell and Ismeal Massoud, in shaping this year’s roster. Also, a look ahead at a possible Kansas State-Kentucky second round game if those teams win on Friday.Story link:K-State Wildcats vs. Montana State Bobcats: NCAA Tournament game time, TV, predictionhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/article273240055.html#storylink=mainstage_card Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs moves in free agency haven’t made national headlines, but there’s plenty of roster turnover occurring for the Super Bowl champions. Four starters and three more who made valuable contributions have departed during free agency. And the week isn’t over.On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writers Herbie Teope and Jesse Newell break down the moves and how the Chiefs plan to replace players like Orlando Brown Jr., Andrew Wylie, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Juan Thornhill and Khalen Saunders.Some of been addressed with such free agent additions as offensive lineman Jawaan Taylor and defensive lineman Charles Omenihu.Work remains for general manager Brett Veach and his staff to complete a roster through free agency, the draft or trades to keep the Chiefs atop the NFL.Story linkFollow Kansas City Chiefs’ free-agency updates: Orlando Brown Jr. finds new homehttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article273157615.html#storylink=mainstage_card Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Missouri enters the NCAA Tournament as a No. 7 seed, its best position since 2012. The Tigers are coming off a competitive SEC tourney semifinal loss to top-ranked Alabama, after beating Tennessee in the quarterfinal. So why is MIzzou a betting underdog to No. 10 seed Utah State in Thursday’s opener?The Aggies are a excellent team, but you better believe Coach Dennis Gates and his veteran team will use any slight in their favor. This is a Missouri team picked to finish 11th in the SEC, and the Tigers were seeded fourth in the tournament.On today’s SportsBeat KC, Star columnist Vahe Gregorian breaks down the Tigers, who open the NCAA Tournament in Sacramento, Calif. A victory on Thursday aligns with them the Arizona-Princeton winner in the South Region.Also at stake: Missouri seeks its first victory in the NCAA Tournament since 2010. It looks to end a five-game March Madness losing streak.Story link:To make it memorable, Mizzou’s turnaround season needs exclamation point in NCAA playhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/vahe-gregorian/article273060235.html#storylink=mainstage_card Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kansas starts defense of its NCAA Tournament championship on a similar spot on the bracket, as a No. 1 seed. But the Jayhawks start the quest from the West instead of the Midwest Region.On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writers Gary Bedore and Shreyas Laddha discuss all things KU from the health of Coach Bill Self, who missed the Big 12 tournament with a cardiac episode, to the availability of defensive standout Kevin McCullar to how the team displayed superb and disappointing play in Kansas City last weekend.Also, just how did Kansas, with the best resume in college basketball, wind up in the West instead of the Midwest, where the Sweet 16 is set for Kansas City?Location of the regional may not matter as much as the path. KU appears to have drawn a difficult one.Story link:Did the Kansas Jayhawks get lucky or unlucky with 2023 NCAA Tournament draw?https://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/university-of-kansas/article273050345.html#subtopper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is this Richmond AFC’s year? Can Jamie Tartt, Sam Obisanya, and Dani Rojas provide the leadership to take Coach Ted Lasso’s club to a championship level? Today’s SportsBeat KC podcast goes inside Richmond AFC’s quest to climb the ranks in the English Premier League.Or nothing like that.But today’s show is about Ted Lasso, the show that begins its third season on Apple TV+ and has enjoyed more success than the team with seven Emmys, including two for best comedy series. Star coumnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell discuss the show, and after a break, Ted Lasso himself, Jason Sudeikis, spent time with Gregorian on a zoom call.They chatted about the show’s international popularity, sports and soccer as a vehicle for Ted Lasso’s message of hope and kindness. As fans of the show know, “Believe,” is a recurring theme.Story link:Believe: As ‘Ted Lasso’ returns, Jason Sudeikis is still astounded by its impacthttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/vahe-gregorian/article272899905.html#storylink=mainstage_lead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kansas enters the Big 12 men’s tournament as the top seed as the first-place finisher of the regular season, but the Jayhawks will have a difficult path if they’re to repeat as champion.It’s possible for KU and many other teams in the field to meet only opponents that NCAA Tournament bound this week at T-Mobile Center. That’s how good the Big 12 was this year.Kansas enters the event coming off a loss at Texas, the tournament’s No. 2 seed. The Jayhawks will open the tournament on Thursday at 2 p.m., against the winner of the West Virginia-Texas Tech game on Wednesday.On today’s SportsBeat KC podcast, beat writers Gary Bedore and Shreyas Laddha share their thoughts on the Jayhawks and offer a prediction on the tournament.Story link:Your Kansas Jayhawks guide to the Big 12 men’s basketball tournament in Kansas Cityhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/university-of-kansas/article272798605.html#storylink=mainstage_card Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re getting used to this in Kansas City: The top-rated men’s basketball conference is the Big 12. The best conference tournament? Also the Big 12.The annual show comes to T-Mobile Center for the men starting on Wednesday and the women’s tournament begins at Municipal Auditorium on Sunday.On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writer Kellis Robinett breaks down the men’s tournament, a even in which nearly every game will match teams that will be playing in the NCAA Tournament the following week.Kansas is the top seed, followed by Texas, Kansas State and Baylor. Seven Big 12 teams should be in the NCAA field, and it’s possible an eighth team could get there.There could be two teams that reach the NCAA playing in Wednesday’s opening round. And for planning purposes, the tournaments will remain in Kansas City through at least 2027.Story link:Here’s the schedule for the Big 12 men’s tournamenthttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/article272753360.html#storylink=mainstage_cardHere’s the schedule for the Big 12 women’s tournamenthttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/big-12-tournament/article272759070.html#storylink=mainstage_lead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For its excellent regular season Missouri’s men’s basketball team was rewarded with two days off. For the first time since joining the SEC, the Tigers played their way to the double-bye, and advance straight to Friday’s quarterfinal round.On today’s SportsBeat KC podcast, Mizzou beat writer Matt Stahl, breaks down the TIgers latest conquest–a tight triumph over Ole Miss in Columbia on Saturday–and looks ahead to the SEC Tournament in Nashville, where Missouri is the No. 4 seed.It’s been a remarkable season for the program in Coach Dennis Gates’ first season. Can MIssouri keep it going in the postseason?After a break, you’ll hear from Star sports reporter Pete Grathoff, who for this show doubles as a television critic. We discuss Travis Kelce’s performance as host for the most recent Saturday Night Live, and maybe it’s regional bias, but we both give him a thumb’s up for his performance.Story link:Mizzou locks up double-bye in SEC Tournament with victory over Ole Misshttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/sec/university-of-missouri/article271326152.html#storylink=mainstage_lead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the first year of free agency for the National Women’s Soccer League, the Kansas City Current came away the big winner. The club that nearly turned in a worst-to-first season by playing in the NWSL championship game, landed several big name players, including Debinha.On today’s SportsBeat KC podcast, Star soccer beat writer Daniel Sperry breaks down the acquisitions and details how they’ll look to help put the Current over the top..Will it be enough to push the Current ahead of the Portland Thorns, the defending NWSL champion?Story links:Kansas City Current have built 2023 team around positive culture: “We find the joy.”https://www.kansascity.com/sports/soccer/kc-current/article272627134.html#storylink=mainstage_leadKansas City Current add star power, World Cup experience with addition of Debinhahttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/soccer/kc-current/article270935762.html#storylink=mainstage_card Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The NFL scouting combine rolls on from Indianapolis where teams are getting a look at college players who could be part of the NFL Draft on April 27-29 in Kansas City.It’s also where coaches and team officials speak with reporters, and for the first time since their Super Bowl LVII victory, Chiefs coach Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach addressed the team’s needs in the off-season.You’ll hear their entire interviews on today’s SportsBeat KC. They talk about the afterglow of a Super Bowl victory, the contract decisions that have to be made on playes like Orlando Brown Jr., and Frank Clark and more.Story link:The Chiefs need pass rushers. These prospects have talked with Chiefs, Andy Reidhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article272633512.html#storylink=mainstage_lead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another season, another Big 12 men’s basketball championship for Kansas. The Jayhawks clinched at least a share for the title with Tuesday’s victory over Texas Tech. KU didn’t trail in the second half but never got comfortable in the four-point outcome on Senior Day.On today’s SportsBeat KC podcast, beat writers Gary Bedore and Shreyas Laddha discuss the big moments and turning points in the game and draw a bigger picture of this season for KU, which wasn’t picked to win the league.Also, with one goal achieved, it’s time to begin looking forward toward the postseason. Yes, one regular season game remains, a showdown at Texas on Saturday, but now it’s all about March for the defending NCAA champion. Can KU become the first team in more than 15 years to repeat?Story link:Three takeaways from KU’s basketball win over Texas Tech that clinched the Big 12 titlehttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/university-of-kansas/article272628830.html#subtopper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Didn’t the Chiefs just conduct a Super Bowl parade? Yes, but the business of the NFL rolls on. The league’s scouting Combine has started in Indianapolis and teams begin to plot their course for next season.On today’s SportsBeat KC, we talk NFL and Chiefs with Joe DeLeone and Herbie Teope.DeLeone is an executive producer of the Bleav Podcast Newtork, who also produces daily college football and NFL Draft video content to YouTube. He provides a Combine lesson and gets specific about quarterback prospects and Chiefs needs.After a break, Teope, who covers the Chiefs for The Star, drills down on the Super Bowl champs, and projects who could and might not be back next season.Ten draft picks from last year were part of the Super Bowl winning roster. That’s why the combine matters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Kansas State men’s basketball team was far from full strength during its last two trips to the NCAA Tournament.Dean Wade, one of the best players in school history, broke his foot days before the postseason arrived in both 2018 and 2019. Talk about bad luck. It was a cruel twist of fate that severely limited the Wildcats not once but twice during March Madness.For that reason, K-State fans still ask hypothetical questions about those two seasons. The main one: What if Wade stayed healthy?Kamau Stokes, who played point guard for those teams, is happy to provide an answer.“We definitely would have won the NCAA Tournament,” Stokes said during a wide-ranging interview you can listen to on the SportsBeat KC podcast. “For sure. Absolutely, no question.”K-State came close to winning it all even without Wade in 2018. That season, Barry Brown and Stokes led the Wildcats to wins over Creighton, UMBC and Kentucky on their way to the Elite Eight before bowing out against Loyola-Chicago.With a healthy Wade back in the lineup the following year, K-State won 25 games and shared a Big 12 championship with Texas Tech. But its postseason run was much shorter, as the Wildcats suffered a first-round upset against UC-Irvine with Wade watching from the bench.Which year would K-State have won a national title with a healthy Wade? Stokes had an answer for that, too.“I would say both, actually, to be honest,” Stokes said. “When we were seniors, I wouldn’t say we had an easy road, because of the tournament. Anyone can win on any given day. But it was a very promising road to the Sweet 16 again.”Stokes scored 1,242 career points during his four seasons with the Wildcats. He helped Brown and Wade guide K-State to three straight appearances in the NCAA Tournament under former coach Bruce Weber and remains a fan favorite at Bramlage Coliseum.Right now, Stokes is living in Manhattan while he recovers from a knee injury. He has spent the past few years playing professionally overseas and hopes to continue his pro career when he returns to full strength.Stokes has been in the stands for every K-State game this year. During this interview, he shared his thoughts on the current team and new coach Jerome Tang. He likes what he sees, but he thinks his teams were better.That is one of the reasons he still wonders what could have been during K-State’s last two trips to the NCAA Tournament.“We talk about it all the time,” Stokes said. “I would have really liked for Dean to be there. Dean makes the job easy. He would have made everything way easier.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three games remain in the Big 12’s regular season and there is plenty left to be determined.Kansas and Texas are tied for first with a final game showdown set for next week in Austin. Player and coach of the year, all-conference selections, NCAA Tournament seeding...all on the line over the next few games.On today’s episode of The Star’s SportsBeat KC podcast, Kellis Robinett, who covers Kansas State and the Big 12, breaks down the race, the awards and the bracketology. It’s been an amazing year for the conference, which will enter the NCAA Tournament in two weeks with a majority of its teams in the field.Four months of tight regular-season play has built toward a dramatic finish. After that, March Madness awaits for Kansas, K-State and other Big 12 programs.How does KU win a conference championship? A closer look at the Big 12 standing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The interviews for players and coaches at Super Bowl LVII have ended but the conversation continues on SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast. Columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell plus beat writers Jesse Newell and Herbie Teope broke down the game and discussed the storylines for the Chiefs’ third Super Bowl appearance in the past four years.We made the case for the Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles in a game that matches top seeds from the AFC and NFC for the first time since 2017, when the Eagles defeated the Patriots. Who needs to come up big for the Chiefs in this one? We identify a few candidates.It’s the Andy Reid game, the Kelce family contest, the first Super Bowl to match black quarterbacks (and Big 12 quarterbacks). And Patrick Mahomes looks to become the first to follow winning the NFL MVP with a Super Bowl title since the Rams’ Kurt Warner in 1999. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whew! The Super Bowl media sessions are over. Chiefs and Eagles spent part of the past four days chatting it up with reporters and now that obligation is out of the way. It will soon be about playing Super Bowl LVII instead of talking about it.On today’s SportsBeat KC we caught up with a handful of Chiefs, starting with Travis Kelce. He spoke about redefining the tight end position and how his brother Jason, the Eagles center, was his lifeline in college.Next up is defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. He speaks to the difficulty in defending Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts and the RPO.We leave the field for the front office. Chiefs president Mark Donovan comments on the meaning of the NFL Draft coming to Kansas City in April. It be the biggest fan event in the city’s history.Chris Jones brings it home. He was asked about his Super Bowl experience and compared he range of emotions in winning and losing a Super Bowl in consecutive years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Chiefs CEO and owner Clark Hunt said he learned some big lessons some 12-15 years ago, when things weren’t going well for the Chiefs, that led him to make some philosophical changes that led to the success the organization now enjoys.“I think about that period frequently,” Hunt said. “I knew we were going to have a tough time. When I took over we have a very old roster and had not drafted well.”Hunt shared that idea and many others on Tuesday at the Super Bowl with a small group of reporters. You’ll hear the entire interview on today’s SportsBeat KC, The Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast originating this week from the Super Bowl.Hunt recalled details about hiring Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach, shared his ideas on changing revenue streams and how that can impact decisions on a future stadium, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Like the Kelce family, with brothers competing on each side of Super Bowl LVII, former Chiefs offensive lineman Joe Valerio has flags planted in both Kansas City and Philadelphia.Valerio spent five of his six NFL seasons playing center with the Chiefs. Among his claims to fame: He caught four touchdown passes.Valerio grew up in Philly, was the Chiefs’ second-round draft pick in 1991 and now lives in Philadelphia. He also co-hosts the Bleav in Chiefs podcast. Few have better perspective on both teams than Valerio, who once owned a fantasy football team called the “Kans-adelphia Chee-gals.”As a former lineman, Valerio looks at strategies from the trenches and breaks down how the Chiefs’ offensive line play has specifically helped Patrick Mahomes, who Valerio said has mastered finding “the pocket within the pocket” as linemen hold their blocks.In defending the Eagles and quarterback Jalen Hurts, a key for the Chiefs is discipline against the run-pass-option.“The RPO is dangerous,” Valerio said. “You have to feel what it’s like not to get blocked and to be optioned (by Hurts). A linebacker has to hold his ground and see what Jalen does.”After a break, Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. explains why he’s motivated by Mahomes, a fellow Texan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs have been here before and recently. They’re preparing to play in the third Super Bowl in three years when they take on the Philadelphia Eagles on Feb. 12 in Glendale, Ariz. So, this week, and not next, is the heavy lifting with the game plan.We talk about what the Chiefs looked to get done this week and several other topics on today’s SportsBeat KC, the Star’s daily sports podcast, with columnist Sam McDowell and beat writers Jesse Newell and Herbie Teope.Also discussed: Does either team have an edge on Super Bowl path? The Chiefs played two one-possession games and survived an emotional nail-biter over the Cincinnati Bengals for the AFC crown. The Eagles? They walloped the New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers by a combined 69-14 score. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs spoke to reporters for the first time since qualifying for Super Bowl LVII, which means they’re speaking to you on SportsBeat KC. You’ll hear from Patrick Mahomes, Andy Reid, Frank Clark and Nick Bolton on today’s show.Reid provided the update on injuries. The Chiefs had to deal with several during the game against the Bengals. Who does Reid expect to play against the Philadelphia EaglesMahomes provided an update on his high ankle sprain. Clark spoke about his special relationship with Reid, and Bolton said he doesn’t take for granted that he plays for a team that been to a Super Bowl and AFC title game in his first two years.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs’ victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in the AFC Championship Game meant a Super Bowl berth for Kansas City but there is deeper meaning to the organization, Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes.Star columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell discuss these topics on today’s SportsBeat KC. How much did the Chiefs need to win to continue to claim they’re the top dogs in AFC, and same for Mahomes as the league’s top quarterback. Losing to the Bengals and Joe Burrow for a second straight year would have made the case more difficult to make.Also, how would history look at the Chiefs if they get a Super Bowl victory over the Philadelphia Eagles? It would make Mahomes, Reid and many others multiple NFL champions and that’s a small circle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today is the locker room show podcast. SportsBeat KC goes into the Chiefs’ locker room and the interview room and you’ll hear from several of the key players in the team’s victory over the Cinicinnati Bengals for the AFC Championship.From the locker room, you’ll hear from kicker Harrison Butker, who booted a 45-yard game-winning field goal with three seconds remaining; also, from safety Bryan Cook, one of ten rookies who played in the game and among the many who made an impact. Cook’s pass break-up led to a fourth-quarter interception.Three of the game’s biggest stars told their stories from the podium: Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and Chris Jones. Hear what they had to say about the game and their roles and the meaning of a third Super Bowl appearance in four years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the third time in four years, the Chiefs are headed to the Super Bowl. And we couldn’t wait to discuss it.On today’s episode of The Star’s SportsBeat KC podcast, beat writers Herbie Teope and Jesse Newell broke down the Chiefs’ 23-20 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in the AFC Championship Game. Along the way, we focus on heroes that were expected, like Patrick Mahomes and Chris Jones, and some that weren’t, like rookie Skyy Moore.The game came down to big plays by all three units: the defense that produced the Jones sack to take the Bengals off the field for a final time; the offense that got the Chiefs into field-goal range; and the special teams play that saw Moore’s long punt return and Harrison Butker’s game-winning 45 yard field-goal.A team victory indeed.Catch all of the coverage of the Chiefs’ Super Bowl run to Glendale, Ariz., where they’ll meet the Philadelphia Eagles on Feb. 12, in the print editions of The Star, in the Morning Sports Edition at kansascity.com and through our SportsBeat KC podcasts and livestreams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the second straight year the Chiefs and Cincinnati Bengals will meet in the AFC Championship Game, and it’s time to get in the final words.On today’s SportsBeat KC, you’ll hear two conversations with The Star’s coverage team. Beat writers Jesse Newell and Herbie Teope break down the key factors from both sides, and what the Chiefs must do differently to end a three-game losing streak to Cincinnati.Also, much will Patrick Mahomes be limited with his high ankle sprain?Then, columnists Sam McDowell and Vahe Gregorian take a broader view of the game from a Chiefs’ perspective. It shapes up as a pivot point in the AFC. A Chiefs victory sends them to their third Super Bowl in four years. A Bengals triumph would allow them to plant the flag in the AFC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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The first report on Patrick Mahomes’ high ankle sprain and availability for the AFC Championship Game on Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals came from Mahomes himself through Andy Reid, who referred to a Mahomes’ line after the Chiefs defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars in the Divisional Round.“He told you guys, I mean, he mentioned to you that’s he’s going to play,” Reid said. “That’s his mindset, and then we’ll just take it day by day and see how he does.”But Reid cautioned that he wouldn’t know for certain until the team’s first practice on Wednesday.“I’ve got to see how he feels when we get ready to practice,” Reid said.On today’s SportsBeat KC, Star columnists Sam McDowell and Vahe Gregorian explore the Mahomes topic from all angles, and how the Chiefs are impacted by a less than 100 percent Mahomes against a team they haven’t beaten in three attempts over the past two years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The AFC Championship Game is set and it’s on repeat. The Chiefs will play host to the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday with the winner headed to the Super Bowl.The meetings between these teams over the past two seasons have been close, all decided by a field goal. The problem for the Chiefs is they’ve lost all of them, even after holding a lead in the fourth quarter in every game.Patrick Mahomes vs. Joe Burrow is the headliner, but there are plenty of other intriguing matchups in this one, and we spend the rest of the week talking about them.But today’s show is dedicated to the Chiefs’ Divisional Round playoff victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Chiefs have won 18 playoff games in 63 seasons as a franchise. We’re not about to overlook one.After the Chiefs’ 27-20 victory, beat writers Jesse Newell and Herbie Teope discussed the game and the big news that emerged from it, Mahomes’ ankle injury. He missed a series–Chad Henne drove the Chiefs 98 yards for a touchdown–but returned to lead the victory.All signs appear good for Mahomes to play against the Bengals and we’ll learn more about his health this week.Story link:Kansas City Chiefs vs. Cincinnati Bengals, AFC Championship Game, TV, game time, oddshttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article271499837.html#subtopper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From a roster standpoint, it had been a mostly quiet off-season for the Royals, but the team made a splash by signing left-handed relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman to a 1-year deal.Maybe the change of scenery will serve Chapman well. He had been a dominant closer for much of his time with the Yankees and the Reds, Blue Jays and Cubs before that, winning a World Series ring in Chicago. But he missed a mandatory team workout before a playoff series and was left off the team’s roster.On today’s show, Royals beat writer Lynn Worthy doesn’t exactly break down the move–the show was taped before it became official–but speculated on what it might mean for the Royals.Also discussed: Brady Singer’s arbitration case, what position Aldaberto Mondesi will play this year and the importance of aquiring Jordan Lyles.Story link:KC Royals roll the dice on high-risk, high-reward free-agent reliever Aroldis Chapmanhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/mlb/kansas-city-royals/article271392042.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some players are in line for firsts when the Chiefs meet the Jaguars in the AFC Divisional Round on Saturday at GEHA Field at Arrowhead.Chris Jones seeks his first playoff sack. Trevor Lawrence has never lost a Saturday game, in high school, college or pro football (37-0), Isiah Pacheco has never won a postseason football game.We discuss all of that and much more on SportsBeat KC, the Star’s daily sports podcast, with Chiefs beat writers Jesse Newell and Herbie Teope.More talking points: The Chiefs are an 8 1/2-point favorite in a rematch of a regular-season game in which Kansas City won by 10. The weather could be a factor with a rain-snow mix in the forecast. And under Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs haven’t lost a playoff game in this round. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Playoff time has arrived in Kansas City. It’s Chiefs vs. Jacksonville Jaguars in the AFC Divisional Round on Saturday in GEHA Field at Arrowhead, 3:30 p.m., kickoff. Plan accordingly.On today’s SportsBeat KC, we get perspective from both sides. Clay Harbor is a former NFL tight end, who started his career with Andy Reid’s Philadelphia Eagles and played four seasons with the Jags. He co-hosts the Bleav In Jaguars podcast and broke down Jacksonville’s amazing run to finish the regular season and team record-setting comeback victory in the Wild Card Round over the L.A. Chargers. The Jags stormed back from a 27-0 deficit.Harbor, who played at Missouri State, also discussed his years playing for the Eagles staff that included Reid and current Jags coach Doug Pederson.After a break, you’ll hear from Patrick Mahomes and Nick Bolton from the Chiefs’ weekly meeting with reporters. They’re in playoff mode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Sunflower Showdown, Part I, is tonight when Kansas visits Kansas State and it’s everything you’d want in a Big 12 game: a pair of ranked teams–KU is No. 2, K-State No. 13–ESPN coverage, what should be incredible atmosphere.Speaking of atmosphere, first-year Wildcats Coach Jerome Tang would like to see things toned down a bit at Bramlage Coliseum. Show love for Kansas State more than hate for Kansas, is the message.You’ll hear that suggestion on today’s SportsBeat KC with beat writer Kellis Robinett. We also discuss a game that could loom large in rankings and seeding.After a break, you’ll hear from KU star Jalen Wilson and Coach Bill Self from their meeting with reporters before the game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs know their playoff opponent and it’s time to gear up for the game. Chiefs vs. Jacksonville Jaguars on Saturday at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Kickoff is 3:30 p.m., and it’s a rematch of a regular-season meeting.On today’s SportsBeat KC, we look ahead to the game and back at the Chiefs’ 27-17 victory in Week 10 with beat writers Herbie Teope and Jesse Newell along with columnists Sam McDowell at Vahe Gregorian. How have Coach Doug Pederson’s Jaguars improved since the game, when they left Kansas City with a 3-7 record?We also break down the Jaguars’ remarkable comeback victory over the L.A. Chargers in the Wild Card round and talk about the other games of the first weekend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices