SportsBeat KC

During last weekend’s NFL Draft, Chiefs chairman and CEO Clark Hunt took questions from reporters about a range of topics like where he and the Chiefs stand on stadium issues, the 2023 NFL Draft coming to Kansas City, the prospect of legalized sports wagering in Missouri and Kansas, and the chance of Kansas City and Arrowhead Stadium landing World Cup games.You’ll hear his session with reporters here. Star columnist Vahe Gregorian joined SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff in something of a post-game analysis. The Chiefs’ future home received the most attention. Hunt spoke to remaining in Arrowhead, what might happen if the Royals move downtown and development around the Truman Sports Complex.Hunt, who operates the region’s most powerful sports franchise, speaks publicly a handful of times during the year. It’s always good to hear what he has to say.Story links:Clark Hunt’s heart hopes Chiefs stay at Arrowhead, but practicality will dictate futureKC Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt supports sports betting. Could Kansas lure team with earnings? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Monday, the Royals got an excellent outing from Zach Greinke, and there won’t be many better defensive plays than the home run robbing grab by center fielder Michael A. Taylor. But they didn’t add up to a Royals victory.The 1-0 loss at St. Louis was the Royals’ fourth straight and dropped them seven games below .500. Three times this year, the Royals have lost at least four straight, and the season is only 21 games old.Where to begin the fix? Star writers Vahe Gregorian, Lynn Worthy and Pete Grathoff took their shots at answering that and covered several other topics on a show that started as a SportsBeat Live and is now presented as a SportsBeat KC podcast.Story links:Kansas City Royals waste Zack Greinke’s strong start in second shutout loss in three daysMJ Melendez recalled emotional moment of being called up by the Royals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

That wasn’t a draft but a full gust of wind that blew over the Chiefs last weekend. At least that’s the take from beat writer Herbie Teope and several NFL writers who covered the NFL Draft. By nearly all accounts the draft couldn’t have gone much better for the Chiefs.On today’s SportsBeat KC podcast, Teope discusses what general manager Brett Veach and the Chiefs staff accomplished and when the 10 drafted players figure to make an impact.After a break, we switch gears and talk about a special annual event that took place on Monday. The Joe McGuff ALS Golf Classic took place on Monday at LionsGate in Overland Park. The event raises money for the disease that took the life of the former Kansas City Star editor and sports columnist.Kansas City sports icons Tom Watson and George Brett are on hand every year to participate and help raise awareness. After Star columnist Vahe Gregorian speaks about the fundraiser, Watson and Brett talk about their motivation to continue the battle fighting ALS.Story link:Did KC Chiefs really nail the NFL Draft? We’ve assigned letter-grades for all 10 picks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One round of the NFL Draft, six to go, and if the rest are like the first for the Chiefs they’ll feel good when the draft wraps up Saturday.Two first-round spots produced Washington cornerback Trent McDuffie at No. 21 and Purdue rush end George Karlaftis at No. 30. Both met positions of need and were players not believed to be available based on pre-draft speculation.On today’s SportsBeat KC, which started as a SportsBeat Live broadcast, beat writer Herbie Teope and columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell break down the first day of draft action and look ahead at what lies ahead for the Chiefs.Story links:Chiefs seek to remain flexible in Rounds 2-3 of the 2022 NFL Drafthttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article260885352.htmlThe one aspect of KC Chiefs’ trade and 1st-round draft pick that you shouldn’t ignorehttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/sam-mcdowell/article260849672.htmlKC Chiefs fill pass-rush need with Karlaftis, who says he’s ready to work his way uphttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article260878707.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Kansas State basketball coach Jerome Tang has been busy hiring a staff and putting together a roster. There’s plenty of work to do for a program that’s experienced three straight losing seasons, but the early returns are positive.One that got away is guard Nijel Pack, the sophomore guard who transferred to Miami, Fla. That wasn’t a huge surprise. There are about 1,500 basketball players in the transfer portal now. What made this one eye-opening was the NIL that came with the move. Pack is expected to receive $800,000 and a car over two years.On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writer Kellis Robinett will discuss those developments and other topics like Skylar Thompson’s NFL Draft prospects. and the legacy of former university president Jon Wefald who recently passed away.Story links:Why Skylar Thompson could be the first Kansas State quarterback since 2009 taken in the NFL Drafthttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/article260746767.htmlK-State basketball transfer Nijel Pack gets massive NIL deal with Miami Hurricaneshttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/article260707142.htmlKansas State Wildcats in mix for heralded Detroit basketball transfer Antoine Davishttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/article260734782.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Plenty went wrong for the Royals last weekend in Seattle, where the Mariners swept a three-game series and extended the Royals’ losing streak to four. On today’s SportsBeat KC podcast, beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnists Sam McDowell and Vahe Gregorian discuss how the Royals can alter the course.You’ll also hear from right fielder Whit Merrifield, who had a frank discussion about his slump and why he believes he and the Royals are close to turning things around.Also, we ask the question, can the clothes change the man? The Royals will see on Saturday when they break out their City Connect uniforms against the Yankees.Story links:Why a slow start hasn’t shaken Whit Merrifield’s confidenceHere’s a first look at the City Connect uniforms the Royals will wear Saturday Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a busy week in sports with the NBA Playoffs, the end of hockey’s regular season, baseball, golf, tennis, auto racing.And the biggest event of them all — the NFL Draft.The three-day event begins Thursday and the Chiefs enter as one of the busiest teams with 12 selections. Will they use them all, trade up for position, trade down for more picks?The draft also signals something of a pivot point for the Chiefs, who are restocking a team that has lost several impact players from the previous season.Each of the draft’s three days should bring plenty of drama for the Chiefs, and on today’s SportsBeat KC podcast, beat writer Herbie Teope breaks it down and projects what he believes what will happen with the team’s two first-round picks.Story links:Mock Draft 4.0: How about an impact NFL pass rusher with the 29th pick?The biggest takeaway from Brett Veach’s comments on the draft Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Could the Chiefs trade up in the first round? What went into the Tyreek Hill trade, and the decision to not re-sign Tyrann Mathieu before last season?Chiefs general manager Brett Veach addressed those topics and more at his annual pre-draft press conference. The Chiefs own 12 picks, two in each of the first four rounds, in the draft that begins next Thursday, so where was plenty to discuss.You’ll hear the entire give and take with reporters on SportsBeat KC, and come back for more next week as The Star loads up on NFL Draft coverage.Story links:Why KC Chiefs’ GM says team has ‘ton of time’ to work out Orlando Brown Jr.’s contract Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a brave new world for major college athletics. Name, image and likeness opportunities present challenges to coaches and administrators. The transfer portal adds another layer to the recruiting game.On today’s SportsBeat KC, Missouri basketball coach Dennis Gates and football coach Eli Drinkwitz discuss the changing landscape with reporters. The coaches and administrators were in town this week to meet and mingle with fans in a regular event disrupted by the pandemic the previous two years.You’ll hear Gates, who was hired last month, and has worked feverishly to reconstruct a roster that includes freshman Aidan Shaw from Blue Valley High. After a break, Drinkwitz covers several topics, including how his staff put together the program’s top recruiting class.Star columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell kick off the episode with their impressions of the event.Story link:Missouri Tigers recruit Aidan Shaw reminds new coach Dennis Gates of Florida State talenthttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/sec/university-of-missouri/article260611277.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Royals’ last impression was a good one, however distant. They defeated the Detroit Tigers 3-1 on Saturday, and will not have played again until opening a three-game home series against the Minnesota Twins on Tuesday.Hunter Dozier and the bullpen had excellent days. The Royals might be on a small winning streak if the day before starting pitcher Brad Keller had received some run support.We know about the overall hitting woes of the Royals, but some good things happened in the Tigers’ series, and broke it down on SportsBeat Live, now a SportsBeat KC podcast with beat writer. Lynn Worthy and columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell.Story links:Dozier showing signs of being a different maker in Royals lineupHunter Dozier’s home run lifts Royals to victory, stops 5-game losing streakBrad Keller gives up big hit late as Royals fall to Tigers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The first phase of the off-season program began on Monday for the Chiefs and quarterback Patrick Mahomes and wide receiver Mecole Hardman are here to talk about it.On today’s SportsBeat KC, The Star’s sports podcast, you’ll hear what the Chiefs had to say about what they hope to get accomplished in the off-season, some updates to injured players like offensive tackle Lucas Niang and the topic on everyone’s mind: How will the Chiefs adjust to life without Tyreek Hill?A Pro Bowl selection all six of his NFL seasons, Hill was dealt to the Miami Dolphins for five draft picks in a stunning move. The Chiefs will miss their star wide receiver but believe enough talent exists to continue winning without him.Story links:KC Chiefs coach Andy Reid provides injury updates on players Lucas Niang, Chris Joneshttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article260513392.htmlKansas City Chiefs’ trade of Tyreek Hill was right move both on field and off: opinionhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/sam-mcdowell/article259707850.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Before starting a home stand on Thursday against the Detroit Tigers, the Royals had seen each of their starting pitchers once.The results have been mixed. Zack Greinke and Brad Keller were terrific to open the season. But Kris Bubic and Carlos Hernandez got knocked around before Daniel Lynch blended good moments with bad.Add it up, and the answer is ... too small of a sample size to analyze fully. But KC Star beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnist Sam McDowell discussed this and more after the season’s first week, including a slow start at the plate for first baseman Carlos Santana.Also on Thursday’s SportsBeat KC podcast: In light of the San Francisco Giants violating some of baseball’s unwritten rules in a pounding of the San Diego Padres, what’s to be said about the unspoken codes and sportsmanship?Story links:Kansas City Royals’ Sal Perez blasted 2 homers, but he would rather have gotten the winKansas City Royals can’t escape hole after Daniel Lynch gives up 6 runs at Cardinals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last month, Dionnah Jackson-Durrett was cutting down nets at Municipal Auditorium as the associate head coach at Texas, which had beaten Baylor to capture the Big 12 championship. This week, she was back in Kansas City being introduced as UMKC’s new women’s coach.On today’s SportsBeat KC, you’ll hear from Jackson-Durrett as she lays out her vision and priorities in her new role.Also on today’s show, it’s not often a news conference is called to introduce an assistant coach but that speaks to the significance of the hiring of Charlton “C.Y.” Young at Missouri.Young and new TIgers coach Dennis Gates spent six years together on Florida State’s staff before Gates became Cleveland State’s head coach. In Tallahassee, the assistants under Leonard Hamilton helped put together teams that rank among the best in Seminoles’ history and they hope to bring that kind of success to Columbia.You’ll hear from Young and Gates from the news conference that was held late last week.Story links:Why both trips to Kansas City brought a smile to new KC Roos’ hoops coachhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/umkc/article260312830.htmlFirst hire on Dennis Gates’ Missouri Tigers staff comes with impressive credentialshttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/sec/university-of-missouri/article260232735.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In less than three weeks, the NFL will conduct its annual draft. And as it stands now, the Chiefs figure to be busy each day with a total of 12 picks, including two each in the first four rounds.KC Star Chiefs beat writer Herbie Teope has been hunkered down, working on mock drafts. He’s released two and plans to unveil two more before the draft begins. What are his guiding principles? The focus is on defense.After a break, columnist Sam McDowell shared his conversation with Tyrann Mathieu. The All-Pro safety who spent the past three years with the Chiefs opens up about why it’s not likely he’ll be back in Kansas City.Story linksIn candid interview, Tyrann Mathieu says he’s ‘heartbroken’ to not be back with ChiefsWhy picking defense first (still) makes sense for Kansas City Chiefs: Mock Draft 2.0 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A week ago today, Kansas defeated North Carolina to win the NCAA men’s basketball championship. What’s happened since then for the Jayhawks? Plenty of celebration, like Sunday’s parade in Lawrence, the announcement of a barnstorming tour and continued speculation about next season, including a timeline for learning of potential NCAA penalties.All of those topics and more are discussed on today’s episode of The Star’s SportsBeat KC podcast with beat writers Gary Bedore and Jesse Newell. After the Jayhawks’ first week as national champions, it’s time to look ahead to who might be returning for Bill Self’s 2022-23 roster. With new rules allowing players to profit from their name, image and likeness, would it make sense for some of this year’s roster — guys with pro basketball dreams — to play another year in college?Story links:What does Kansas’ Jayhawks roster next season look like?IARP updates KU’s case entry for the first time in months. Here are the takeawaysWatch the NCAA champion Kansas Jayhawks’ celebration parade Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Opening Day weather was frightful, but the Royals’ Thursday afternoon victory over the Cleveland Guardians was delightful in many ways.Zack Greinke was solid in his return to the Royals, his first start at The K in a KC uniform in more than a decade. The defense was excellent, too, and Bobby Witt Jr. got a hit in his first major-league game.Not just a hit, either — an eighth-inning RBI double that gave the Royals the lead for good in a 3-1 win. There was an ice bucket splash on the field and condiment bath afterward. Good times all around. Only 161 games remaining. What’s the magic number?On today’s episode of The Star’s SportsBeat KC podcast, beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell relate the significance of the first game and look ahead with host Blair Kerkhoff. The show started as a SportsBeat Live Friday morning and now you can here it here in audio form.Story links:“I wasn’t crazy sharp,” Zack Greinke says of Royals’ returnRoyals players gave Bobby Witt Jr. a special celebration with a purpose behind itHow unfazed rookie Bobby Witt Jr. made magic in his Royals debut and what it portends Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Masters tees off on Thursday and on today’s SportsBeat KC, you’ll hear from a first-time participant who attended Blue Valley North High.Harry Higgs is quickly becoming a tour favorite. He’s a big personality who qualified for golf’s first major of the year by finishing fourth in last year’s PGA.It looms as an eventful few days in Augusta. Tiger Woods says he’s playing. Tom Watson is an honorary starter for the time, and Harry Higgs figures to have the time of his life.Free-lance golf journalists Garrett Johnston caught up with Higgs last week for his podcast Beyond the Clubhouse, and you’ll hear part of that interview after a break. First, you’ll hear from Johnston and host Blair Kerkhoff, discussing The Masters.Story linksBeyond the Clubhouse podcasthttps://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5yZWRjaXJjbGUuY29tLzE1MTBkMjE5LTFiOGYtNGE5My1iYmQxLTdhMWM2Y2ZiNmU0Nw/episode/OGNkOWZiZTItZWU0NS00NmRmLWJkYjYtMTEwMDJiY2I2MTcz?sa=X&ved=0CAUQkfYCahcKEwiIit_Xx__2AhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAQ&hl=en Sun’s out guns out at Masters? Nah, KC’s Harry Higgs plans to keep his shirt on at Augustahttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/article260104855.html PGATour.com: Here comes Harry Higgs, right up Magnolia Lanehttps://www.pgatour.com/long-form/2022/04/03/here-comes-harry-higgs-right-up-magnolia-lane-first-masters.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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The Kansas Jayhawks meet the North Carolina Tar Heels in New Orleans for the men’s basketball national championship. KU is bidding for its fourth NCAA title, and if it cuts the nets, only UCLA, Kentucky, North Carolina and Duke will have won trophies.Bill Self is aware of the history and his program’s success in many categories. But KU has come up short in national championships, winning one in his first 18 seasons. This team provides his best shot as a second title.On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writer Jesse Newell joins columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell in setting up the game and explaining what’s at stake for the Jayhawks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Teams coached by Kansas’ Bill Self and Villanova’s Jay Wright have met in the NCAA Tournament three times. And the winner always went on to win the national championship.Will that be the case a fourth time? The Jayhawks and Wildcats face off in Saturday’s first Final Four semifinal, with the winner facing the survivor of a showdown between Duke and North Carolina — they play after KU-Nova — for the national championship.On today’s SportsBeat KC podcast, you’ll hear from Self and Wright, who took the podium Thursday at the Final Four in New Orleans. Each coach covered several topics over a 20-minute interview period. You’ll hear all of their comments here.A final programming note: Kansas City Star KU beat writers Jesse Newell and Gary Bedore, columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell and host Blair Kerkhoff will be doing daily SportsBeat livestreams from New Orleans as long as the Jayhawks are still playing. Watch kansascity.com and The Star’s social media channels for start times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Opening Day for the Royals is one week away and many of the boxes are checked. Lineup? Pretty much set. Closer? Scott Barlow. First starter? Zack Greinke. After Greinke?Not sure about the rotation after that. Brad Keller, Brady Singer, Carlos Hernandez, Daniel Lynch, Kris Bubic, Jackson Kowar, Jon Heasley are all candidates. Keep in mind teams can carry two additional players during the season’s first month.On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell discuss the rotation and lineup as the season approaches.Story links:Carlos Hernandez ready to move on after rough spring startRoyals commit to manager Mike Matheny behind 2022 season Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s been 50 years for the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. Is it time to start exploring at new home in Kansas City?Team president Mark Donovan tossed out that idea at the NFL meetings this week and it got everyone’s attention. On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writer Herbie Teope and columnist Vahe Gregorian discuss the idea—and the chances—of the Chiefs not playing at Arrowhead Stadium.We also tackle other topics like the Chiefs’ influence on the NFL’s new overtime rule for the playoffs and what decisions remain for the Chiefs in free agency.Story links:KC Chiefs president says team is exploring possible sites for stadium in Kansas: reporthttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article259897210.htmlShould Kansas City Chiefs stay in Missouri or move to Kansas? Vote in Border War pollhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article259910100.htmlNFL owners approve new playoff rule allowing both teams a possession in overtime gameshttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article259899680.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Beyond the Bracket, a special edition series of the SportsBeat KC podcast that’s here to here to cover everything March Madness.Each week, I’ll be joined by reporters and columnists from around the country to discuss college hoops. This final episode features insiders into two of the men’s Final Four teams: Jesse Newell, who covers the Kansas Jayhawks for The Star, and Steve Wiseman, who covers the Duke Blue Devils for the News & Observer.Saturday’s semifinal games feature four of the best programs in Duke, Kansas, North Carolina and Villanova. Newell and Wiseman provide insight into how each of the teams they cover got here, including how the Blue Devils overcame the pressure of a final season under coach Mike Krzyzewski and the keys to the Jayhawks’ success in the tournament.The trio also discusses the magnitude of these Final Four matchups, keys to each game, the possibility of a Duke-Kansas title game and who might hit the first buzzer-beating shot of March Madness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Next top for Kansas, the Final Four.The Jayhawks ran away from Miami, Fla., 76-60 on Sunday to capture the Midwest Region championship and advance to the Final Four for the 16th time in program history. Villanova awaits in the semifinal Saturday in New Orleans.On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writers Gary Bedore and Jesse Newell break down the Kansas effort, when they outscored the Hurricanes by 32 points in the second half. Remy Martin was voted the region’s most outstanding player but several had a hand in helping the Jayhawks overcome a six-point halftime deficit.We look back on the game and look ahead to a weekend that also includes a Duke-North Carolina semifinal.Story links:Bill Self feels late father’s presence during Final Four runAn unexpected halftime talk by Bill Self sparked Kansas’ second half turnaroundFirst look at men’s Final Four: College basketball’s blues will play in New OrleansRolling to the Big East: Kansas Jayhawks surge in second half Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Basketball coaching searches came to an end at Kansas State and Missouri this week and the beat writers take us through the hiring process on today’s SportsBeat KC.Kellis Robinett describes the path of Jerome Tang, a Baylor assistant coach for 19 years. Tang has never been a college head coach but he was part of the Scott Drew staff that turned the Bears from an also ran into a national champion.Lila Bromberg breaks down the hiring of Dennis Gates at Mizzou. Gates went 50-40 over three seasons at Cleveland State and spent eight years on Leonard Hamilton’s Florida State staff, helping turn the Seminoles into an ACC power.The tasks begin for both coaches, who take over programs that finished under .500 this season, especially in recruiting. They’re on the hunt for new talent and also have to re-recruit players on this season’s roster.Story links:How Missouri Tigers’ Dennis Gates plans to run his first high major basketball programKansas State guard Nijel Pack ready to explore NBA Draft opportunities Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Opening day is two weeks away and the Royals are rounding into shape. Bobby Witt Jr., blasted a titanic home run this week and continues to make his strong case as the starting third baseman.Nobody is off to a hotter start at the plate than Edward Olivares, and perhaps this will be the year he sticks with the club instead of running the Kansas City-Omaha shuttle service.Hunter Dozier opened up about his slump last season, and Zack Greinke is soaking in spring training by observing the Royals’ young staff.We cover all of these topics and more on SportsBeat KC with beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell.Story links:KC Royals pitchers keep noticing surprise guest at their bullpen sessions: Zack GreinkeKansas City Royals avoid arbitration with several players, but not Lopez or Benintendi‘What am I doing?’: How Royals’ Hunter Dozier got in a funk (and found his way out) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The news is stunning to Chiefs fans: Wide receiver Tyreek Hill, a Pro Bowl player in all six of his seasons in Kansas City and one of the most clutch players in team history, was traded on Wednesday to the Miami Dolphins.The Chiefs got five draft picks in return, including first-, second- and fourth-round spots in next month’s 2022 NFL Draft. That’s a good return. But Hill is a game-changing talent. And the Chiefs, with some salary cap restrictions, couldn’t come up with a contract that would work for both sides.On today’s episode of The Star’s SportsBeat KC podcast, Chiefs beat writer Herbie Teope, columnist Vahe Gregorian and host Blair Kerkhoff break down the trade with Miami and what it means for the Chiefs. Can this short-term loss become a long-term gain?Story links:Kansas City Chiefs trade superstar wide receiver Tyreek Hill to Miami Dolphins: detailsWith Tyreek Hill gone, where do Kansas City Chiefs go from here? That’s the questionRemembering five impact moments for Tyreek Hill in a Chiefs uniformChiefs fans have a mixed reaction to news of Tyreek Hill trade Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Beyond the Bracket, a special edition series of the SportsBeat KC podcast that’s here to here to cover everything March Madness.Each week, I’ll be joined by reporters and columnists from around the country to discuss college hoops. This episode features The Star’s Blair Kerkhoff, Anthony Kristensen of The Columbia Missourian and Augusta Stone, the South Carolina women’s basketball reporter for The State, to discuss an upset-filled start to the men’s and women’s tournaments.The first part of the episode is dedicated to men’s basketball. Topics of discussion include: Biggest takeaways and surprises from the first two rounds, players that have impressed us the most, predictions for the Sweet Sixteen and Final Four picks.On the women’s basketball segment we discuss: why there is more parity this season, the biggest upsets through the first two rounds, teams we’ve been most impressed with, offensive concerns for South Carolina and who could win it all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kansas hasn’t played in the Sweet 16 since its Final Four run in 2018. The last time the Jayhawks endured a streak that long was 1998-2000, and the next season, then-coach Roy Williams brought a good-luck charm to the news conference: a stuffed monkey named “Stank ‘em.” Williams put the monkey on his back and the players swatted it off. Get the monkey off his back, get it?No stuffed animal helped Kansas end its most recent Sweet 16 “drought,” which lasted all of two Tournaments (the 2020 event was canceled due to the pandemic). Beat writers Jesse Newell and Gary Bedore break it down on today’s episode of the SportsBeat KC podcast.They look ahead to Friday’s matchup with Providence and explain why one analyst describes the Friars as college basketball’s luckiest team.Story links:Kansas Jayhawks’ Ochai Agbaji ‘not stressing or pressing’ over missed shots in NCAAsRemy Martin’s huge first half proved pivotal in Kansas Jayhawks surviving Creighton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The first day of the NCAA Tournament produced four victories by double-digit seeds, including the shocker: No. 15 seed St. Peter’s over Kentucky.Kansas avoided any such upset. The top-seeded Jayhawks rolled past Texas Southern.Now KU faces a second-round task against Creighton, which defeated San Diego State in overtime Thursday. In this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s sports podcast, KU beat writers Jesse Newell and Gary Bedore discuss Kansas’ prospects in Round 2.Also, there’s the matter of college basketball’s all-time victories list. The Jayhawks entered the tournament two wins behind first-place Kentucky. The Wildcats’ loss opens the door for KU to tie Kentucky with a win Saturday. Hear what Jesse and Gary have to say about that race.Story links:No. 1 seed Kansas Jayhawks easily win NCAA Tournament opener. Up next: CreightonKentucky upset means Kansas Jayhawks can catch Wildcats on college basketball wins list Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zack Greinke spent his first seven major league seasons with the Royals, the team that drafted and developed him, and now he’ll be in Kansas City for season No. 19.The Royals signed Greinke to a one-year, $13 million deal this week, but that wasn’t the team’s only mound move. They also traded starter Mike Minor to the Cincinnati Reds for reliever Amir Garrett.How will this moves impact the Royals? Star columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell break it down on SportsBeat KC, the Kansas City Star’s sports podcast. The show started as a Royals SportsBeat Live.Story links:Sam McDowell: Zack Greinke’s return to KC is more than a nice story. It reveals the Royals’ plansLynn Worthy: Amir Garrett joins the Kansas City Royals, aiming to prove he’s ‘better now’From brink of ‘disastrous outcome,’ baseball is back and somehow we can’t stay angry Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy NFL New Year!Wednesday was the first day of the NFL’s calendar year. But I don’t see any bowl games scheduled. Still, there’s plenty of roster action this week as free agency continues. The Chiefs have shuffled some players, signing safety Justin Reid, restructuring the contract of defensive end Frank Clark and bidding farewell to cornerback Charvarius Ward.Also, the AFC West continues to load up with the additions of quarterback Russell Wilson with the Denver Broncos and defensive end Khalil Mack with the Los Angeles Chargers.Beat writer Herbie Teope posts all the moves on the Chiefs tracker on KansasCity.com. He came up for air to break it down on today’s SportsBeat KC.Story links:Herbie Teope: NFL free agency for the Kansas City Chiefs. Follow it here.Pete Grathoff: Two AFC West’s NFL’s “offseason improvement index.” Is it enough to top Chiefs? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Beyond the Bracket, a special edition series of the SportsBeat KC podcast that’s here to get you ready for the NCAA Tournament.Each week, I’ll be joined by reporters and columnists from around the country to discuss college hoops. This episode features insiders into two of the top-seeded teams: Jesse Newell, who covers the Kansas Jayhawks for The Star, and John Clay, a columnist for the Lexington Herald-Leader who covers the Kentucky Wildcats.The official bracket has been revealed and March Madness is here. We share our reactions to how the field was seeded, break down each region, discuss what upsets to watch for, explain the best practices in filling our your bracket and give our updated Final Four picks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did Kansas get an easy or difficult draw as the top seed in the Midwest Region? On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writers Jesse Newell and Gary Bedore break down the Jayhawks’ road to the Final Four. Things could get tricky for KU in the first weekend.Also, there were some playing rotation developments at the Big 12 tournament. KU won the event, defeating Texas Tech in the championship game, and rolled through the event by getting performances from some non-starters like Remy Martin and Mitch Lightfoot.How will Bill Self utilize minutes in the highest stakes games?Story links:Jesse Newell: Did KU get lucky or unlucky with NCAA Tournament draw? Here’s the answerSam McDowell: Why the Kansas Jayhawks’ most important development wasn’t lifting the Big 12 trophy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hello.After more than three months away from the mic, and treatment for hairy cell leukemia, it’s time to get back to work. That begins with today’s SportsBeat KC podcast. I’m Blair Kerkhoff, and there’s plenty to discuss with Star columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam McDowell.Major college conference basketball tournaments begin this week, including the Big 12 tourneys in Kansas City. Kansas enters the event as the top seed and could meet Kansas State in its first game. Is this the last stand for Wildcats coach Bruce Weber? The same can be asked of Missouri coach Cuonzo Martin, who leads the TIgers into the SEC tournament.The NFL’s free agency period approaches, too, and we also discuss potential Chiefs moves this offseason.On a personal note, a heartfelt thanks for your thoughts and prayers that continue to keep my spirits soaring throughout my recovery. It feels great to be back.Story links:Sam McDowell: FIve moves the Chiefs should make this offseasonVahe Gregorian: Unsightly victory may have revealed something about Kansas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Beyond the Bracket, a special edition series of the SportsBeat KC podcast that’s here to get you ready for the NCAA Tournament.Each week, I’ll be joined by reporters and columnists from around the country to discuss college hoops. This third episode features C.L. Brown, the North Carolina Tar Heels beat reporter for the News & Observer, and Joe Davidson, a columnist for The Sacramento Bee.The regular season is over and it’s officially conference tournament week. First, Brown shares some insight into UNC’s upset over Duke in coach Mike Krzyzewski’s last game at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Then we get into the postseason and discuss our picks for the ACC, Big 12, Big East, Big Ten, Pac-12 and SEC tournaments. To end things, we each give our current picks for the Final Four. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Beyond the Bracket, a special edition series of the SportsBeat KC podcast that’s here to get you ready for the NCAA Tournament.Each week, I’ll be joined by reporters and columnists from around the country to discuss college hoops. This second episode features insiders into two of the best men’s basketball programs in the country as well as the top-ranked women’s team: Jesse Newell, who covers the Kansas Jayhawks for The Star, Luke DeCock, a columnist for the News & Observer covering teams across the ACC (including Duke), and Augusta Stone, the South Carolina women’s basketball reporter for The State.The first part of the episode is dedicated to men’s basketball. Topics of discussion include: Reactions to each of the top six ranked teams losing over the weekend, updates on the Kansas and Duke programs, methods of ranking teams in the AP Poll, thoughts on how the selection committee determines the bracket, current Final Four picks, and games we’re most excited to watch this week.On the women’s basketball segment we discuss: What makes South Carolina the No. 1 team in the country, who should be named the national player of the year, what to expect in the SEC tournament and teams that could go far in March Madness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Each week, Lila Bromberg will be joined by reporters and columnists from around the country to discuss college basketball ahead of the NCAA Tournament. This episode features John Clay, a columnist for the Lexington Herald-Leader covering Kentucky, and C.L. Brown, the North Carolina beat reporter for The News & Observer. The trio shares their thoughts on the initial reveal of the top 16 seeds, bubble teams, favorites for national coach of the year and national player of the year, Final Four picks, and games they’re most excited to watch this week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a disappointing end to the 2021 season, what’s ahead for the Chiefs?Can they — or, more to the point, should they — keep their roster entirely intact for another run at the Super Bowl? Or is it time to welcome in some new faces to Kansas City? And if so, who could be headed out the door to make room on the NFL roster? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the second week in a row, the Chiefs went to overtime in the NFL playoffs. This time, the magic ran out as the Cincinnati Bengals won 27-24 in overtime of the AFC Championship Game at Arrowhead Stadium.Join the discussion with The Star’s coverage team consisting of columnist Vahe Gregorian, Chiefs beat reporters Sam McDowell, reporter Jesse Jewell, reporter Lila Bromberg and host/reporter Herbie Teope. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another week, another rematch for the Chiefs.Last weekend, it was the Bills in the AFC Divisional Round of the NFL playoffs. The Chiefs exacted revenge for a 38-20 loss to Buffalo in Week 5 by beating the Bills 42-36 in overtime at Arrowhead Stadium to advance to this Sunday’s AFC Championship Game, also at Arrowhead.Now the Chiefs play host to another team that beat them during the regular season — Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and the Bengals, 34-31 victors over the Chiefs in Cincinnati on Jan. 2.The stakes are far higher than they were for that Week 17 game. The victor takes on the winner of Sunday’s NFC Championship Game between the L.A. Rams and San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LVI. Could a Super Bowl rematch be in the offing? Yes, if the Chiefs and Niners advance. The Chiefs won their first Super Bowl in 50 years when they beat San Francisco in Miami two years ago.But first the Chiefs must solve the Bengals. Watch our SportsBeat KC stream with columnist Vahe Gregorian and beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell as they discuss the stakes and how the Chiefs can advance to their third straight Super Bowl. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

join columnist Vahe Gregorian, beat writer Sam McDowell, reporters Jesse Newell and Lila Bromberg and host/reporter Herbie Teope to discuss the heroics that sent the Chiefs to their NFL record fourth straight conference championship game right here in Kansas City. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The AFC Divisional Round kicks off the weekend, and Sunday night’s game between the Chiefs and Buffalo Bills Arrowhead Stadium projects to be a very good one. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs beat the Steelers soundly Sunday night at Arrowhead Stadium to advance to a Divisional Round showdown against the Buffalo Bills next Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s the opening round of the NFL playoffs, with the Chiefs facing the Steelers at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So the Chiefs did their part on Saturday, beating the Denver Broncos 28-24 at Empower Field at Mile High.Up next, the playoffs.The Chiefs will need to wait for Sunday’s games to conclude before they know an opponent and date for their playoff opener, though. They’ll definitely be keeping a close eye on one Sunday game — Titans at Texans — in particular. But games involving the Bills and Bengals will also factor in.Join KC Star columnist Vahe Gregorian, Chiefs beat reporters Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell and sportswriter Pete Grathoff at about 9 p.m. tonight (Saturday) to discuss Saturday’s action and Sunday’s scenarios. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs have plenty to play for in the regular-season finale. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Kansas City Star’s coverage team of Vahe Gregorian, Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell, and special guests Jesse Newell and Lila Bromberg broke down the Chiefs’ 34-31 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals after the game on Sunday afternoon.Story links:KC Chiefs lose control of AFC seeding: What happened in Sunday’s loss at the Bengals?KC Chiefs’ report card vs. Bengals: This specific aspect doomed Kansas City on SundayFive things that stood out about the Kansas City Chiefs’ road loss to the BengalsKC Chiefs had a chance to put the game in Patrick Mahomes’ hands. They whiffedHow one play epitomized all that went wrong for the KC Chiefs in 34-31 loss to Bengals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs clinched a playoff berth with last weekend’s resounding home victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers.But they still have some unfinished business to take care of in Week 17, with a chance to clinch the conference’s No. 1 seed — and accompanying first-round bye — in the postseason.On Thursday, Herbie Teope, fellow beat writer Sam McDowell and columnist Vahe Gregorian previewed the game and its implications in a year-end edition of The Star’s SportsBeat Live stream. Their conversation is presented here as a SportsBeat KC replay.With a one-game lead for the top seed, the Chiefs (11-4) need a win to stay ahead of the Tennessee Titans (10-5) with the regular season coming to a close. The Chiefs could clinch that spot Sunday with a win and Titans loss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs didn’t play like a team missing several key starters, hammering the Pittsburgh Steelers from open to close on Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium. After the game, the Star's sportswriters gathered to analyze Kansas City's victory and look back at this season's turnaround, from 3-4 to the top of the AFC West.This episode originated as a SportsBeat Live video on Sunday evening, and is presented here in podcast form. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices