LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska forward Rienk Mast will have surgery on his left knee and miss the 2024-25 season, coach Fred Hoiberg said Thursday.

Mast, who averaged 12.3 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, said he plans to take a medical redshirt and return in 2025-26.

“As some people know, I played most of last season with a knee that wasn’t completely healthy,” he said. “Over these past couple weeks, I’ve spoken with multiple doctors about what we can do to get my knee healthy for the rest of my playing career and hopefully life. These have been some difficult conversations, but the best way forward for me is to undergo surgery.”

Mast's six double-doubles were the most by a Nebraska player since 2007-08. The 22-year-old from The Netherlands scored at least 10 points in 20 games, including a career-high 34 against Ohio State.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska forward Rienk Mast will have surgery on his left knee and miss the 2024-25 season, coach Fred Hoiberg said Thursday.Mast, who averaged 12.3 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, said he plans to take a medical redshirt and return in 2025-26.“As some people know, I played most of last season with a knee that wasn’t completely healthy,” he said. “Over these past couple weeks, I’ve spoken with multiple doctors about what we can do to get my knee healthy for the rest of my playing career and hopefully life. These have been some difficult conversations, but the best way forward for me is to undergo surgery.”Mast's six double-doubles were the most by a Nebraska player since 2007-08. The 22-year-old from The Netherlands scored at least 10 points in 20 games, including a career-high 34 against Ohio State.

MBB: Key Husker to miss all of 2024-25 season after knee surgery

MIAMI (AP) — Jesús Sánchez hit a game-winning single in the bottom of the 10th inning and the Miami Marlins beat the Colorado Rockies 5-4 Thursday and swept their three-game series.

The Marlins got two of their three victories in the series in 10 innings. They earned a 7-6 win in the opener on Tuesday.

Sánchez’s two-out opposite-field line drive to left off reliever Jalen Beeks scored automatic runner Luis Arraez from second.

The hit capped a whirlwind of emotions for Sánchez during the homestand. Miami manager Skip Schumaker removed Sánchez in the third inning for lack of effort while fielding a ball in Monday’s loss against Washington.

“This always shows you how life is, how baseball is,” Sánchez said. “There are ups and downs and you just have to move forward. Skip has always given me a vote of confidence and I am always trying to take advantage of that opportunity.”

Justin Lawrence (1-2) struck out Bryan De La Cruz before Beeks retired Jazz Chisholm Jr. on a fly out to center and walked Josh Bell. Sánchez had gone hitless in two at-bats against left-handed reliever Ty Blach but ended the game by connecting against left-handed throwing Beeks.

“For him to walk it off — I know it was a tough night for him the other night — credit to him,” Schumaker said. “He’s moved on. I think he’s grown from it already. I told him I still love him. I’m super happy for him.”

Arraez had two hits and Bell homered, while Miami starter Edward Cabrera and five relievers struck out 16. Burch Smith (1-0) pitched the 10th.

The Rockies lost their fifth straight and are the first team since 1900 to have trailed at one point in each of their first 31 games. They dropped to an NL-worst 7-24 and manager Bud Black met with the club after game. Black didn’t elaborate what was discussed.

“Morale is fine, you see it in there,” Black said. “Guys are playing their (butts) off. We’re just not getting the clutch hit or making the big pitch. They’re frustrated after the tough losses, but man, this group has a lot of heart.”

Cabrera was lifted with no outs in the fifth after his fourth walk loaded the bases. Cabrera, who said he’s been feeling cold symptoms in recent days, gave up four runs and three hits.

“I just tried to stay in the zone and get outs,” Cabrera said in Spanish. “Obviously, I have to work more on my control.”

Nick Fortes’ RBI single in the fourth gave the Marlins a 4-3 lead before the Rockies tied it in the fifth, when Jake Cave scored from third on a double play groundout by Ezequiel Tovar.

Colorado erased a two-run deficit with former Marlin Jacob Stallings’ three-run homer in the second. Stallings drove a changeup from Cabrera over the wall in left for his first homer of the season. Stallings played the past two years in Miami before signing with Colorado.

Miami tied it at 3-all on Bell’s solo blast in the third.

Chisholm’s RBI single and Sánchez’s sacrifice fly against Rockies starter Peter Lambert put the Marlins ahead 2-0 in the first.

Lambert allowed four runs and five hits in 3 1/3 innings. He walked three and struck out three.

Marlins: Left-hander Jesus Luzardo (left elbow tightness) threw a bullpen session Thursday. ... Left-hander Braxton Garrett (left shoulder impingement) completed five scoreless innings of one-hit ball in a rehab outing with Triple-A Jacksonville on Wednesday, while infielder Jake Burger (muscle strain) went 1-for-4 in a similar rehab appearance with Jacksonville.

Rockies: Right-hander Cal Quantrill (0-3, 5.34) will start the opener of a three-game series at Pittsburgh on Friday. Left-hander Martin Perez (1-1, 2.86) will start for the Pirates.

Marlins: Have not announced a starter for the opener of a three-game series at Oakland on Friday. The A’s will go with left-hander JP Sears (1-2, 4.64).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714702677730.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI (AP) — Jesús Sánchez hit a game-winning single in the bottom of the 10th inning and the Miami Marlins beat the Colorado Rockies 5-4 Thursday and swept their three-game series.The Marlins got two of their three victories in the series in 10 innings. They earned a 7-6 win in the opener on Tuesday.Sánchez’s two-out opposite-field line drive to left off reliever Jalen Beeks scored automatic runner Luis Arraez from second.The hit capped a whirlwind of emotions for Sánchez during the homestand. Miami manager Skip Schumaker removed Sánchez in the third inning for lack of effort while fielding a ball in Monday’s loss against Washington.“This always shows you how life is, how baseball is,” Sánchez said. “There are ups and downs and you just have to move forward. Skip has always given me a vote of confidence and I am always trying to take advantage of that opportunity.”Justin Lawrence (1-2) struck out Bryan De La Cruz before Beeks retired Jazz Chisholm Jr. on a fly out to center and walked Josh Bell. Sánchez had gone hitless in two at-bats against left-handed reliever Ty Blach but ended the game by connecting against left-handed throwing Beeks.“For him to walk it off — I know it was a tough night for him the other night — credit to him,” Schumaker said. “He’s moved on. I think he’s grown from it already. I told him I still love him. I’m super happy for him.”Arraez had two hits and Bell homered, while Miami starter Edward Cabrera and five relievers struck out 16. Burch Smith (1-0) pitched the 10th.The Rockies lost their fifth straight and are the first team since 1900 to have trailed at one point in each of their first 31 games. They dropped to an NL-worst 7-24 and manager Bud Black met with the club after game. Black didn’t elaborate what was discussed.“Morale is fine, you see it in there,” Black said. “Guys are playing their (butts) off. We’re just not getting the clutch hit or making the big pitch. They’re frustrated after the tough losses, but man, this group has a lot of heart.”Cabrera was lifted with no outs in the fifth after his fourth walk loaded the bases. Cabrera, who said he’s been feeling cold symptoms in recent days, gave up four runs and three hits.“I just tried to stay in the zone and get outs,” Cabrera said in Spanish. “Obviously, I have to work more on my control.”Nick Fortes’ RBI single in the fourth gave the Marlins a 4-3 lead before the Rockies tied it in the fifth, when Jake Cave scored from third on a double play groundout by Ezequiel Tovar.Colorado erased a two-run deficit with former Marlin Jacob Stallings’ three-run homer in the second. Stallings drove a changeup from Cabrera over the wall in left for his first homer of the season. Stallings played the past two years in Miami before signing with Colorado.Miami tied it at 3-all on Bell’s solo blast in the third.Chisholm’s RBI single and Sánchez’s sacrifice fly against Rockies starter Peter Lambert put the Marlins ahead 2-0 in the first.Lambert allowed four runs and five hits in 3 1/3 innings. He walked three and struck out three.TRAINER’S ROOMMarlins: Left-hander Jesus Luzardo (left elbow tightness) threw a bullpen session Thursday. ... Left-hander Braxton Garrett (left shoulder impingement) completed five scoreless innings of one-hit ball in a rehab outing with Triple-A Jacksonville on Wednesday, while infielder Jake Burger (muscle strain) went 1-for-4 in a similar rehab appearance with Jacksonville.UP NEXTRockies: Right-hander Cal Quantrill (0-3, 5.34) will start the opener of a three-game series at Pittsburgh on Friday. Left-hander Martin Perez (1-1, 2.86) will start for the Pirates.Marlins: Have not announced a starter for the opener of a three-game series at Oakland on Friday. The A’s will go with left-hander JP Sears (1-2, 4.64).

The streak lives on - Marlins beat Rockies in 10, have trailed in all 31 games this season

Junior Jackson Brockett tossed the sixth individual no-hitter in Nebraska baseball history, and the first nine-inning no-hitter since 1954, in Nebraska's 8-0 win over Kansas State on Wednesday night at Hawks Field at Haymarket Park.

It marked NU's first individual no-hitter since 1981, when Anthony Kelley didn't allow a hit over seven innings against the Oklahoma Sooners. It was just the second ever nine-inning individual no-hitter, joining Richard Geier's no-hitter in 1954 against the Kansas Jayhawks.

In his first start of the season, Brockett posted a career-high 12 strikeouts on 107 pitches which is the most punchouts by a Husker hurler since Will Walsh last season. The outing was the second complete-game shutout by a Nebraska pitcher this season, joining Brett Sears who tossed a two-hitter against Ohio State earlier this season.

Nebraska (28-15) totaled eight runs on 12 hits and an error, while Kansas State (26-18) was held without a run or hit with two errors.

Ben Columbus finished 2-for-3 with a two-run homer, while Garrett Anglim produced a two-hit game along with a pair of RBI. Case Sanderson extended his on-base streak to 15 games and Tyler Stone drove in two runs. Rhett Stokes added two hits for the Huskers, while Riley Silva, Garrett Anglim and Cole Evans each recorded a knock.

The Elkhorn, Neb., native needed just eight pitches to get through the Wildcats first three hitters, setting up the Husker offense in the bottom of the first inning.

Silva drew a one-out walk and immediately stole second base, before advancing to third on a throwing error by the catcher. A wild pitch in the next at-bat allowed Silva to score and give NU an early 1-0 lead.

After a pair of outs in the bottom of the second inning, Columbus doubled down the right field line and Carey reached on a throwing error to give the Huskers runners on first and third. However, a strikeout ended the inning and stranded runners on the corners for the Big Red.

On the mound, Brockett continued to deal by setting down the next six Kansas State batters to remain perfect across the first three innings.

Silva reached for the second time on a single and swiped second for his 27th steal of the season, the most by a Husker since 2001. Stone walked to give Nebraska a pair of baserunners for the second straight inning before a fielder’s choice and groundout ended the third frame.

Brockett retired the side in order in the fourth inning, before a throwing error in the infield allowed the first Wildcat to reach base. The southpaw walked the next batter but induced an inning-ending double-play ball to keep Kansas State off the board in the fifth frame.

Nebraska’s offense broke through in the bottom half of the fifth, beginning with Stone being plunked and Sanderson’s double. Anglim subsequently drove both in on a two-run double to extend the NU advantage to 3-0.

In the next at-bat, Columbus launched a 375-foot two-run home run beyond the party porch in right field to push the lead to five runs. Brockett responded with a zero in the top of the sixth inning, striking out the side to keep the Huskers in front 6-0.

The southpaw put up another scoreless inning, while Nebraska added runs in the seventh and eighth innings on Carey’s sacrifice fly and Stone’s RBI groundout to grab an 8-0 lead.

Brockett worked around a leadoff walk in the ninth inning to retire the Wildcats in order and secure the sixth no-hitter in Nebraska baseball history.

Nebraska travels to Minneapolis Minn., for a three-game conference series this weekend with Minnesota on Friday-Sunday, May 3-5 at Siebert Field. First pitch of Friday’s series opener between the Huskers and the Golden Gophers is set for 4 p.m. MT.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714664092529.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy: Nebraska AthleticsJunior Jackson Brockett tossed the sixth individual no-hitter in Nebraska baseball history, and the first nine-inning no-hitter since 1954, in Nebraska's 8-0 win over Kansas State on Wednesday night at Hawks Field at Haymarket Park.It marked NU's first individual no-hitter since 1981, when Anthony Kelley didn't allow a hit over seven innings against the Oklahoma Sooners. It was just the second ever nine-inning individual no-hitter, joining Richard Geier's no-hitter in 1954 against the Kansas Jayhawks.In his first start of the season, Brockett posted a career-high 12 strikeouts on 107 pitches which is the most punchouts by a Husker hurler since Will Walsh last season. The outing was the second complete-game shutout by a Nebraska pitcher this season, joining Brett Sears who tossed a two-hitter against Ohio State earlier this season.Nebraska (28-15) totaled eight runs on 12 hits and an error, while Kansas State (26-18) was held without a run or hit with two errors.Ben Columbus finished 2-for-3 with a two-run homer, while Garrett Anglim produced a two-hit game along with a pair of RBI. Case Sanderson extended his on-base streak to 15 games and Tyler Stone drove in two runs. Rhett Stokes added two hits for the Huskers, while Riley Silva, Garrett Anglim and Cole Evans each recorded a knock.The Elkhorn, Neb., native needed just eight pitches to get through the Wildcats first three hitters, setting up the Husker offense in the bottom of the first inning.Silva drew a one-out walk and immediately stole second base, before advancing to third on a throwing error by the catcher. A wild pitch in the next at-bat allowed Silva to score and give NU an early 1-0 lead.After a pair of outs in the bottom of the second inning, Columbus doubled down the right field line and Carey reached on a throwing error to give the Huskers runners on first and third. However, a strikeout ended the inning and stranded runners on the corners for the Big Red.On the mound, Brockett continued to deal by setting down the next six Kansas State batters to remain perfect across the first three innings.Silva reached for the second time on a single and swiped second for his 27th steal of the season, the most by a Husker since 2001. Stone walked to give Nebraska a pair of baserunners for the second straight inning before a fielder’s choice and groundout ended the third frame.Brockett retired the side in order in the fourth inning, before a throwing error in the infield allowed the first Wildcat to reach base. The southpaw walked the next batter but induced an inning-ending double-play ball to keep Kansas State off the board in the fifth frame.Nebraska’s offense broke through in the bottom half of the fifth, beginning with Stone being plunked and Sanderson’s double. Anglim subsequently drove both in on a two-run double to extend the NU advantage to 3-0.In the next at-bat, Columbus launched a 375-foot two-run home run beyond the party porch in right field to push the lead to five runs. Brockett responded with a zero in the top of the sixth inning, striking out the side to keep the Huskers in front 6-0.The southpaw put up another scoreless inning, while Nebraska added runs in the seventh and eighth innings on Carey’s sacrifice fly and Stone’s RBI groundout to grab an 8-0 lead.Brockett worked around a leadoff walk in the ninth inning to retire the Wildcats in order and secure the sixth no-hitter in Nebraska baseball history.Nebraska travels to Minneapolis Minn., for a three-game conference series this weekend with Minnesota on Friday-Sunday, May 3-5 at Siebert Field. First pitch of Friday’s series opener between the Huskers and the Golden Gophers is set for 4 p.m. MT.

Brockett throws no-hitter in Husker win over K-State!

DENVER (AP) — The high-scoring,&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Avalanche/status/1785527730152325139">fast-flying</a>&nbsp;Colorado Avalanche are so much more than the Nathan MacKinnon Show.

The supporting cast for the Avalanche played an integral role as they eliminated the Winnipeg Jets in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nhl-playoffs-avalanche-jets-score-rantanen-120d29a4360e66bbea245c713bd2015e">five games during</a>&nbsp;their first-round series.&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Avalanche/status/1785714967771009457">The Avalanche</a>&nbsp;had 12 different players find the back of the net in a series where they averaged 5.6 goals a game against a team that led the NHL in fewest goals allowed during the regular season.

It's the sort of top-to-bottom depth that has MacKinnon, a Hart Trophy candidate, recalling 2022, when the Avalanche won the third Stanley Cup championship in franchise history. The Dallas Stars or the defending champion Vegas Golden Knights will be the opponent in the next round.

“Everyone’s on the same page,” MacKinnon said.

Everything's breaking just right for the Avalanche, too, which was best illustrated by Mikko Rantanen in Game 5. After mishandling a pass, he broke his stick in frustration, grabbed a new one and proceeded to snap out of a goal-scoring funk with his first two scores of the series. The Jets had gone 3-0 against the Avalanche during the season.

“I was going to try avoid doing that,” Rantanen said of showing his emotions. “Overall, the series was really, really good for us. I think we got better after every game. We kind of looked at things we could do better and we kind of ramped it up after each game. So really happy with the performance and keep moving now from here.”

MacKinnon is the top offensive threat every team tries to neutralize. Still, the speedy forward finished with two goals and seven assists against the Jets.

It was his teammates who took advantage of the extra attention on MacKinnon. Valeri Nichushkin (seven goals) and Artturi Lehkonen (five) became the first teammates in league history to have simultaneous five-game goal streaks to open a postseason, according to NHL Stats.

Colorado went shopping at the trade deadline to improve its depth at forward, picking up Casey Mittelstadt, Yakov Trenin and Brandon Duhaime. The Avalanche also added 39-year-old veteran Zach Parise as a free agent in January. Going back before the season, Colorado brought in Ross Colton and Miles Wood. That contingent contributed seven goals and seven assists. They were essential with Colorado missing Jonathan Drouin due to a lower-body injury.

“Everyone in that room is going to give everything they have and that’s the standard,” said MacKinnon, whose team scored 24 goals on Vezina Trophy finalist Connor Hellebuyck. “Whether you score or don’t, some of that stuff is out of your control, but you can control your effort and how hard you work. ... Whether we win or lose, we just want to go out swinging. We had a great series in that sense.”

Goaltender Alexandar Georgiev certainly found his groove after a Game 1 performance in which he allowed seven goals. It looked as if Georgiev might be replaced by backup Justus Annunen in Game 2, before Annunen came down with an illness.

Georgiev posted a 2.00 goals-against average and a .932 save percentage over the final four games of the series.

“Everybody was so supportive,” Georgiev said. “I felt a lot of love from the room. It definitely help me. I tried to have fun and enjoy the atmosphere. It was awesome again. I thought everyone helped out defensively so much.”

The next matchup may be against the Stars, who won the Central Division. The Stars and Avalanche were neck-and-neck all season, separated by five points or fewer for 97% of the regular season, according to league research.

Should the Avalanche face the Golden Knights, it would be the third time in the last 32 years that Stanley Cup winners from the previous two seasons squared off in a series.

One thing's for sure: Avalanche coach Jared Bednar wouldn't mind seeing this sort of offensive firepower following his team into the next round. Only four other teams have scored&nbsp;<a href="https://records.nhl.com/records/playoff-team-records/most-goals/most-goals-one-team-5-game-series-playoff">at least 28 goals</a>&nbsp;in a five-game NHL postseason series.

DENVER (AP) — The high-scoring,&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Avalanche/status/1785527730152325139">fast-flying</a>&nbsp;Colorado Avalanche are so much more than the Nathan MacKinnon Show.The supporting cast for the Avalanche played an integral role as they eliminated the Winnipeg Jets in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nhl-playoffs-avalanche-jets-score-rantanen-120d29a4360e66bbea245c713bd2015e">five games during</a>&nbsp;their first-round series.&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Avalanche/status/1785714967771009457">The Avalanche</a>&nbsp;had 12 different players find the back of the net in a series where they averaged 5.6 goals a game against a team that led the NHL in fewest goals allowed during the regular season.It's the sort of top-to-bottom depth that has MacKinnon, a Hart Trophy candidate, recalling 2022, when the Avalanche won the third Stanley Cup championship in franchise history. The Dallas Stars or the defending champion Vegas Golden Knights will be the opponent in the next round.“Everyone’s on the same page,” MacKinnon said.Everything's breaking just right for the Avalanche, too, which was best illustrated by Mikko Rantanen in Game 5. After mishandling a pass, he broke his stick in frustration, grabbed a new one and proceeded to snap out of a goal-scoring funk with his first two scores of the series. The Jets had gone 3-0 against the Avalanche during the season.“I was going to try avoid doing that,” Rantanen said of showing his emotions. “Overall, the series was really, really good for us. I think we got better after every game. We kind of looked at things we could do better and we kind of ramped it up after each game. So really happy with the performance and keep moving now from here.”MacKinnon is the top offensive threat every team tries to neutralize. Still, the speedy forward finished with two goals and seven assists against the Jets.It was his teammates who took advantage of the extra attention on MacKinnon. Valeri Nichushkin (seven goals) and Artturi Lehkonen (five) became the first teammates in league history to have simultaneous five-game goal streaks to open a postseason, according to NHL Stats.Colorado went shopping at the trade deadline to improve its depth at forward, picking up Casey Mittelstadt, Yakov Trenin and Brandon Duhaime. The Avalanche also added 39-year-old veteran Zach Parise as a free agent in January. Going back before the season, Colorado brought in Ross Colton and Miles Wood. That contingent contributed seven goals and seven assists. They were essential with Colorado missing Jonathan Drouin due to a lower-body injury.“Everyone in that room is going to give everything they have and that’s the standard,” said MacKinnon, whose team scored 24 goals on Vezina Trophy finalist Connor Hellebuyck. “Whether you score or don’t, some of that stuff is out of your control, but you can control your effort and how hard you work. ... Whether we win or lose, we just want to go out swinging. We had a great series in that sense.”Goaltender Alexandar Georgiev certainly found his groove after a Game 1 performance in which he allowed seven goals. It looked as if Georgiev might be replaced by backup Justus Annunen in Game 2, before Annunen came down with an illness.Georgiev posted a 2.00 goals-against average and a .932 save percentage over the final four games of the series.“Everybody was so supportive,” Georgiev said. “I felt a lot of love from the room. It definitely help me. I tried to have fun and enjoy the atmosphere. It was awesome again. I thought everyone helped out defensively so much.”The next matchup may be against the Stars, who won the Central Division. The Stars and Avalanche were neck-and-neck all season, separated by five points or fewer for 97% of the regular season, according to league research.Should the Avalanche face the Golden Knights, it would be the third time in the last 32 years that Stanley Cup winners from the previous two seasons squared off in a series.One thing's for sure: Avalanche coach Jared Bednar wouldn't mind seeing this sort of offensive firepower following his team into the next round. Only four other teams have scored&nbsp;<a href="https://records.nhl.com/records/playoff-team-records/most-goals/most-goals-one-team-5-game-series-playoff">at least 28 goals</a>&nbsp;in a five-game NHL postseason series.

Avalanche will face Stars-Golden Knights series winner

MIAMI (AP) — Roddery Muñoz pitched six strong innings to get his first major league win and the Miami Marlins beat the Colorado Rockies 4-1 on Wednesday night.

Making his second major league start, the 24-year-old Muñoz (1-0) gave up one run and three hits while striking out seven and walking two. After allowing two base runners in the first, Muñoz retired 11 straight before Elehuris Montero’s one-out single in the fifth.

“This is something I have always dreamed of and thank God, I am accomplishing it,” Muñoz said in Spanish. “It is very emotional not only for me but my family.”

Muñoz also had a solid debut, when he allowed two runs in five innings against the Chicago Cubs on April 20 but was optioned to Triple-A after his outing. He was recalled by the Marlins on Tuesday.

“That is normal, one knows how this works,” Muñoz said. “What you do is work even harder to return here.”

Emmanuel Rivera singled twice, walked and was hit by a pitch, while Luis Arraez and Bryan De La Cruz each drove in a run for the Marlins, who won their first series of the season. Dane Myers drove in two runs with a pinch-hit single in the eighth and has five RBIs over the last two games.

“We have a good group of guys, good ball players,” Rivera said. “We go out every time to try to win. Obviously, it is not always going to happen but we always come with that winning mentality.”

The Rockies are the first team since 1900 to have trailed at one point in each of their first 30 games. They lost their fourth straight since scoring six in the eighth and rallying from a five-run deficit to beat San Diego 10-9 April 25.

“We’ve got to keep on fighting,” Rockies manager Bud Black said. “I think the youth on this team is being served. They’re learning and they learn that it’s hard in the big leagues with big league pitching. “

Arraez hit a two-out RBI single against Rockies starter Dakota Hudson and scored on De La Cruz’s double to put Miami ahead 2-0 in the fifth.

Elias Díaz’s run-scoring grounder in the sixth got the Rockies to 2-1 after Muñoz walked Brenton Doyle and allowed Ryan McMahon’s double.

Bryan Hoeing relieved Muñoz and got the next five outs. Tanner Scott completed the eighth and Anthony Maldonado closed with a perfect ninth for his first major league save.

“Some really good wins the last couple and it started with the starting pitching,” Marlins manager Skip Schumaker said. “Roddery was amazing today. The slider was real. The fastball command was great. Excellent job by Roddery.”

Hudson (0-5) allowed two runs and five hits over 5 2/3 innings. The right-hander walked two, struck out two and hit a batter.

Rockies: LHP Kyle Freeland (left elbow strain) is improving and could progress to a throwing session soon.

Marlins: SS Tim Anderson (mild left thumb sprain) was scratched from the original lineup as a precaution. Anderson didn’t start Tuesday but entered as the automatic runner in the 10th inning and scored the tying run in Miami’s 7-6 win.

RHP Peter Lambert (2-1, 4.67) will start the series finale for the Rockies on Thursday while the Marlins will go with RHP Edward Cabrera (1-1, 5.28).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714663818613.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI (AP) — Roddery Muñoz pitched six strong innings to get his first major league win and the Miami Marlins beat the Colorado Rockies 4-1 on Wednesday night.Making his second major league start, the 24-year-old Muñoz (1-0) gave up one run and three hits while striking out seven and walking two. After allowing two base runners in the first, Muñoz retired 11 straight before Elehuris Montero’s one-out single in the fifth.“This is something I have always dreamed of and thank God, I am accomplishing it,” Muñoz said in Spanish. “It is very emotional not only for me but my family.”Muñoz also had a solid debut, when he allowed two runs in five innings against the Chicago Cubs on April 20 but was optioned to Triple-A after his outing. He was recalled by the Marlins on Tuesday.“That is normal, one knows how this works,” Muñoz said. “What you do is work even harder to return here.”Emmanuel Rivera singled twice, walked and was hit by a pitch, while Luis Arraez and Bryan De La Cruz each drove in a run for the Marlins, who won their first series of the season. Dane Myers drove in two runs with a pinch-hit single in the eighth and has five RBIs over the last two games.“We have a good group of guys, good ball players,” Rivera said. “We go out every time to try to win. Obviously, it is not always going to happen but we always come with that winning mentality.”The Rockies are the first team since 1900 to have trailed at one point in each of their first 30 games. They lost their fourth straight since scoring six in the eighth and rallying from a five-run deficit to beat San Diego 10-9 April 25.“We’ve got to keep on fighting,” Rockies manager Bud Black said. “I think the youth on this team is being served. They’re learning and they learn that it’s hard in the big leagues with big league pitching. “Arraez hit a two-out RBI single against Rockies starter Dakota Hudson and scored on De La Cruz’s double to put Miami ahead 2-0 in the fifth.Elias Díaz’s run-scoring grounder in the sixth got the Rockies to 2-1 after Muñoz walked Brenton Doyle and allowed Ryan McMahon’s double.Bryan Hoeing relieved Muñoz and got the next five outs. Tanner Scott completed the eighth and Anthony Maldonado closed with a perfect ninth for his first major league save.“Some really good wins the last couple and it started with the starting pitching,” Marlins manager Skip Schumaker said. “Roddery was amazing today. The slider was real. The fastball command was great. Excellent job by Roddery.”Hudson (0-5) allowed two runs and five hits over 5 2/3 innings. The right-hander walked two, struck out two and hit a batter.TRAINER’S ROOMRockies: LHP Kyle Freeland (left elbow strain) is improving and could progress to a throwing session soon.Marlins: SS Tim Anderson (mild left thumb sprain) was scratched from the original lineup as a precaution. Anderson didn’t start Tuesday but entered as the automatic runner in the 10th inning and scored the tying run in Miami’s 7-6 win.UP NEXTRHP Peter Lambert (2-1, 4.67) will start the series finale for the Rockies on Thursday while the Marlins will go with RHP Edward Cabrera (1-1, 5.28).

Rockies' dubious trailing streak reaches another new low at 30 games

Voice of the Eagles Dave Collins visits with CSC Interim Athletic Director Dr. China Jude on how her top priorities are moving along during the first three weeks on the job, the process of hiring a new men's basketball coach, and her experience working with the University of Wyoming and the Denver Broncos!

<div><iframe title="CSC Sports Journal: Interim Athletic Director Dr. China Jude" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=wfa5r-15fecb8-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Voice of the Eagles Dave Collins visits with CSC Interim Athletic Director Dr. China Jude on how her top priorities are moving along during the first three weeks on the job, the process of hiring a new men's basketball coach, and her experience working with the University of Wyoming and the Denver Broncos!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695229852520.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 CSC Sports Journal: Interim Athletic Director Dr. China Jude

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (AP) — Mikko Rantanen scored his first two goals of the playoffs in the third period, leading the Colorado Avalanche to a 6-3 victory over the Winnipeg Jets on Tuesday night that clinched their opening-round playoff series in five games.

Rantanen, who also had an assist, scored twice in a span of just under four minutes early in the third period to snap a 3-3 tie.

“That’s the best hockey we’ve played for five games in a row all season long," Colorado coach Jared Bednar said. "And that’s what it takes this time of year, and that’s partly our experience, I think,”

Valeri Nichushkin, Yakov Trenin, Artturi Lehkonen and Josh Manson also scored for the Avalanche, who will play the winner of the series between the Dallas Stars and Vegas Golden Knights.

Nathan MacKinnon and Devon Toews each had two assists, and Alexandar Georgiev made 33 saves for Colorado.

“I thought the first couple periods we were maybe a little bit too cautious,” Georgiev said. “But in the third, we knew they would try to open it up (and) we scored a big goal, the fourth one, and kept playing smart. Very, very solid effort.”

Kyle Connor, Josh Morrissey and Tyler Toffoli scored for the Jets. Connor Hellebuyck stopped 26 shots.

“In the (last) two years, that’s by far the best playoff game we’ve played,” Jets coach Rick Bowness said. “It didn’t go our way tonight. Couple goals went in off of us. We had some chances that we didn’t score.

"Where was that in the first four games? That’s a question we’re going to have to answer ourselves over the course of the summer.”

The game was tied at 1 after a fast-paced first period and Colorado led 3-2 heading into the third.

Toffoli tied it at 3 for the Jets, who won all three meetings during the regular season. But Rantanen scored his first goal of the game two minutes later at 4:11 to put the Avalanche up 4-3. He added his second goal at 8:01.

Manson shot into the empty net with 2 seconds left to cap the victory for Colorado, which finished three points behind Winnipeg in the Central Division. It was the first time the teams faced each other in the playoffs.

Winnipeg became the first team in NHL history to allow five or more goals in each of its first five games to begin a postseason. The Avalanche outscored the Jets 28-15 during the series, including four empty-net goals.

“You work all year to give yourself an opportunity,” Morrissey said. “We had a great regular season. Out in five, it’s pretty disappointing.”

With the game tied at 1 in the second period, Trenin got his first goal and point of the series when his shot hit the post and he regained the puck and flipped it into the net at 5:42 to give Colorado a 2-1 lead.

Winnipeg went on its first power play a minute later and Morrissey’s one-timer from the point blew past Georgiev 14 seconds into the man advantage.

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (AP) — Mikko Rantanen scored his first two goals of the playoffs in the third period, leading the Colorado Avalanche to a 6-3 victory over the Winnipeg Jets on Tuesday night that clinched their opening-round playoff series in five games.Rantanen, who also had an assist, scored twice in a span of just under four minutes early in the third period to snap a 3-3 tie.“That’s the best hockey we’ve played for five games in a row all season long," Colorado coach Jared Bednar said. "And that’s what it takes this time of year, and that’s partly our experience, I think,”Valeri Nichushkin, Yakov Trenin, Artturi Lehkonen and Josh Manson also scored for the Avalanche, who will play the winner of the series between the Dallas Stars and Vegas Golden Knights.Nathan MacKinnon and Devon Toews each had two assists, and Alexandar Georgiev made 33 saves for Colorado.“I thought the first couple periods we were maybe a little bit too cautious,” Georgiev said. “But in the third, we knew they would try to open it up (and) we scored a big goal, the fourth one, and kept playing smart. Very, very solid effort.”Kyle Connor, Josh Morrissey and Tyler Toffoli scored for the Jets. Connor Hellebuyck stopped 26 shots.“In the (last) two years, that’s by far the best playoff game we’ve played,” Jets coach Rick Bowness said. “It didn’t go our way tonight. Couple goals went in off of us. We had some chances that we didn’t score."Where was that in the first four games? That’s a question we’re going to have to answer ourselves over the course of the summer.”The game was tied at 1 after a fast-paced first period and Colorado led 3-2 heading into the third.Toffoli tied it at 3 for the Jets, who won all three meetings during the regular season. But Rantanen scored his first goal of the game two minutes later at 4:11 to put the Avalanche up 4-3. He added his second goal at 8:01.Manson shot into the empty net with 2 seconds left to cap the victory for Colorado, which finished three points behind Winnipeg in the Central Division. It was the first time the teams faced each other in the playoffs.Winnipeg became the first team in NHL history to allow five or more goals in each of its first five games to begin a postseason. The Avalanche outscored the Jets 28-15 during the series, including four empty-net goals.“You work all year to give yourself an opportunity,” Morrissey said. “We had a great regular season. Out in five, it’s pretty disappointing.”With the game tied at 1 in the second period, Trenin got his first goal and point of the series when his shot hit the post and he regained the puck and flipped it into the net at 5:42 to give Colorado a 2-1 lead.Winnipeg went on its first power play a minute later and Morrissey’s one-timer from the point blew past Georgiev 14 seconds into the man advantage.

Avalanche eliminate Jets 6-3 to advance to second round

Courtesy: Alliance Tennis Coach Scott Mills

Alliance defeated North Platte 6-3 in a home dual on Monday.

#1 Doubles Kinley Pfeiffer and Regan Braun 

Alliance girls tennis placed 3rd in the Hastings Saint Cecilia invite last Saturday.&nbsp;

#1 Singles Amelia Gibson placed 3rd going 3-2

#1 Doubles Kinley Pfeiffer and Regan Braun placed 3rd going 2-2

#2 Doubles Cici Hudson and Diane Dubray placed 2nd going 4-1

Alliance placed 3rd in the Scottsbluff Invite on April 23

#1 Singles Amelia Gibson placed 3rd with a 3-1 record

#2 Singles Makenna Quick placed 7th with a 1-3 record 

#1 Doubles Regan Braun and Kinley Pfeiffer placed 2nd with a 3-1 record

#2 Doubles Diane Dubray and Cici Hudson placed 2nd with a 3-1 record

Next: The team will play in the Kearney Catholic Invite on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629461621684.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy: Alliance Tennis Coach Scott MillsAlliance defeated North Platte 6-3 in a home dual on Monday.Winners:#1 Singles Kinley Pfeiffer #2 Singles Amelia Gibson #4 Singles Regan Braun#5 Singles Diane Dubray #6 Singles Alivia Osborn #1 Doubles Kinley Pfeiffer and Regan Braun Alliance girls tennis placed 3rd in the Hastings Saint Cecilia invite last Saturday.&nbsp; #1 Singles Amelia Gibson placed 3rd going 3-2#2 Singles Alivia Osborn went 0-5#1 Doubles Kinley Pfeiffer and Regan Braun placed 3rd going 2-2#2 Doubles Cici Hudson and Diane Dubray placed 2nd going 4-1Alliance placed 3rd in the Scottsbluff Invite on April 23#1 Singles Amelia Gibson placed 3rd with a 3-1 record#2 Singles Makenna Quick placed 7th with a 1-3 record #1 Doubles Regan Braun and Kinley Pfeiffer placed 2nd with a 3-1 record#2 Doubles Diane Dubray and Cici Hudson placed 2nd with a 3-1 recordNext: The team will play in the Kearney Catholic Invite on Thursday.

Alliance girls tennis earns pair of 3rd place finishes, beats North Platte

Western Conference Track &amp; Field Meet Scottsbluff, NE 4/30/24 Boys Team Champion: Sidney Girls Team Champion: Sidney <a href="https://www.athletic.net/TrackAndField/meet/539603/results">All Individual Event Results Link</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629461621684.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Western Conference Track &amp; Field Meet Scottsbluff, NE 4/30/24 Boys Team Champion: Sidney Girls Team Champion: Sidney <a href="https://www.athletic.net/TrackAndField/meet/539603/results">All Individual Event Results Link</a>

Sidney sweeps Western Conference Track Meet Tuesday

MIAMI (AP) — Dane Myers hit a game-winning single in the 10th inning as the Miami Marlins overcame a five-run deficit and beat Colorado 7-6 on Tuesday night, making the Rockies the first team since 1900 to trail in each of its first 29 games.

Miami (7-24) bounced back from a 5-0 first-inning deficit by scoring five times in the ninth, then rallied from down 6-5 in the 10th and ended a seven-game losing streak.

“For anybody that says that they don’t care, they don’t fight, they don’t work, that kind of proves everyone wrong,” Marlins manager Skip Schumaker said. “The results are the results. I get it. But it’s not for a lack of want or a lack of caring. Those guys really care. They want to win and they’re prepared to win every day.”

The Rockies (7-22) had lost Sunday and joined the 1910 St. Louis Browns as the only teams to trail in each of their first 28 games.

Colorado never was behind until after the final pitch.

Backed by a 5-0 first-inning lead, Ryan Feltner entered the ninth trying for his first professional complete game but allowed Vidal Bruján’s leadoff single, hit Christian Bethancourt with a pitch, then gave up Luis Arraez’s RBI double.

Justin Lawrence relieved and walked Bryan De La Cruz, gave up Myers’ two-run single, forced in a run when he hit Jesús Sánchez with a pitch with the bases loaded and allowed Emmanuel Rivera’s sacrifice fly.

“It’ll take me a while to think about my performance,” Feltner said. “Right now, I just feel like I let the team down. I got to finish that ninth inning out. Never been in a position like that before, and I’m hungry to get back there to the ninth and finish out next time.”

Ryan McMahon’s RBI double against Tanner Scott (1-4) put the Rockies ahead 6-5 in the 10th, but De La Cruz had a run-scoring double off Jalen Beeks (2-2) in the bottom half and scored when Myers’ grounded an opposite-field single to right. Hunter Goodman made a one-hop throw to the plate but the ball bounced out of Elias Díaz’s mitt as De La Cruz slid into the catcher.

“I was just looking for something over the plate,” Myers said.

Myers got his his first big league walk-off hit. He entered in the eighth after Jazz Chisholm Jr. was ejected by plate umpire Jansen Visconti for arguing a called third strike.

“He was the first one to thank me,” Myers said of Chisholm. “He’s a good clubhouse guy and teammate. It feels good to pick up a guy like Jazz and I’m glad I was able to do that.”

Jordan Beck, a 23-year-old Rockies outfield prospect, went 2 for 4 in his major league debut. He singled in his first big league at-bat.

Miami won a series opener for the first time this season.

Elehuris Montero hit a three-run homer in the first against Sixto Sánchez after McMahon and Charlie Blackmon had RBI singles.

Rockies: OF Nolan Jones (low back strain) was placed on the 10-day IL. ... LHP Lucas Gilbreath (left shoulder soreness) was transferred to the 60-day IL.

Marlins: INF Jake Burger (left intercostal muscle strain) and LHP Braxton Garrett (left shoulder impingement) will play with Triple-A Jacksonville on rehab assignments Wednesday.

RHP Dakota Hudson (0-4, 6.57) will start the second game of the series for the Rockies on Wednesday. RHP Roddery Muñoz (0-0, 3.60) is scheduled to start for the Marlins.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714533811982.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI (AP) — Dane Myers hit a game-winning single in the 10th inning as the Miami Marlins overcame a five-run deficit and beat Colorado 7-6 on Tuesday night, making the Rockies the first team since 1900 to trail in each of its first 29 games.Miami (7-24) bounced back from a 5-0 first-inning deficit by scoring five times in the ninth, then rallied from down 6-5 in the 10th and ended a seven-game losing streak.“For anybody that says that they don’t care, they don’t fight, they don’t work, that kind of proves everyone wrong,” Marlins manager Skip Schumaker said. “The results are the results. I get it. But it’s not for a lack of want or a lack of caring. Those guys really care. They want to win and they’re prepared to win every day.”The Rockies (7-22) had lost Sunday and joined the 1910 St. Louis Browns as the only teams to trail in each of their first 28 games.Colorado never was behind until after the final pitch.Backed by a 5-0 first-inning lead, Ryan Feltner entered the ninth trying for his first professional complete game but allowed Vidal Bruján’s leadoff single, hit Christian Bethancourt with a pitch, then gave up Luis Arraez’s RBI double.Justin Lawrence relieved and walked Bryan De La Cruz, gave up Myers’ two-run single, forced in a run when he hit Jesús Sánchez with a pitch with the bases loaded and allowed Emmanuel Rivera’s sacrifice fly.“It’ll take me a while to think about my performance,” Feltner said. “Right now, I just feel like I let the team down. I got to finish that ninth inning out. Never been in a position like that before, and I’m hungry to get back there to the ninth and finish out next time.”Ryan McMahon’s RBI double against Tanner Scott (1-4) put the Rockies ahead 6-5 in the 10th, but De La Cruz had a run-scoring double off Jalen Beeks (2-2) in the bottom half and scored when Myers’ grounded an opposite-field single to right. Hunter Goodman made a one-hop throw to the plate but the ball bounced out of Elias Díaz’s mitt as De La Cruz slid into the catcher.“I was just looking for something over the plate,” Myers said.Myers got his his first big league walk-off hit. He entered in the eighth after Jazz Chisholm Jr. was ejected by plate umpire Jansen Visconti for arguing a called third strike.“He was the first one to thank me,” Myers said of Chisholm. “He’s a good clubhouse guy and teammate. It feels good to pick up a guy like Jazz and I’m glad I was able to do that.”Jordan Beck, a 23-year-old Rockies outfield prospect, went 2 for 4 in his major league debut. He singled in his first big league at-bat.Miami won a series opener for the first time this season.Elehuris Montero hit a three-run homer in the first against Sixto Sánchez after McMahon and Charlie Blackmon had RBI singles.TRAINER’S ROOMRockies: OF Nolan Jones (low back strain) was placed on the 10-day IL. ... LHP Lucas Gilbreath (left shoulder soreness) was transferred to the 60-day IL.Marlins: INF Jake Burger (left intercostal muscle strain) and LHP Braxton Garrett (left shoulder impingement) will play with Triple-A Jacksonville on rehab assignments Wednesday.UP NEXTRHP Dakota Hudson (0-4, 6.57) will start the second game of the series for the Rockies on Wednesday. RHP Roddery Muñoz (0-0, 3.60) is scheduled to start for the Marlins.

Rockies set ugly new record with horrible loss to Marlins

DENVER (AP) — Jamal Murray overcame a strained left calf, management's suggestion he sit this one out and another haymaker from the Los Angeles Lakers to score 32 points and sink the game-winner with 3.6 seconds left Monday night.

That sent LeBron James to his earliest playoff exit ever and the Denver Nuggets tottering into Round 2 with a 108-106 win in Game 5 that featured 16 lead changes and 10 ties and was only secured when Taurean Prince's halfcourt heave fell short as time expired.

“Shout-out to the Lakers, they gave us a great series,” said Murray, who also hit the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/denver-nuggets-los-angeles-lakers-score-c6101ac1b716a0dfde2b851993b80057">franchise's first playoff buzzer-beater</a>&nbsp;in Game 2.

“Those are shots that you dream of as a little kid,” said Murray, who called this one just “a little better.”

If not for his dogged determination — and defiance — Murray never would have had the chance to seal the series.

“I came in a little earlier today to see if I was going to be able to go, and I felt like I could and they just didn't want me to risk it,” recounted Murray, who warmed up with an ice pack strapped to his injured calf. "They told me no. They told me no.

"And I didn't say no. I didn't want to leave my teammates out there,” added Murray, who missed 23 games due to injury in 2023-24. “We've been battling all season. Everybody's hurt at some point, everybody's going through something and I just wouldn't be able to live with myself if I wasn't able to play this game.

”I'm just glad they listened to me — and listened to me listening to my body — and just trusting me with it."

James' two free throws tied it at 106 with 26 seconds left and the Nuggets, just as they did in Game 2, eschewed the timeout and Murray took the ball on a high screen-and-roll to his left, shaking Austin Reaves as he crossed through the lane and swished the 14-footer.

“That kid’s a warrior, man," Nuggets coach Michael Malone said. "The bigger the moment, the kid just continues to shine.”

Nikola Jokic, who committed an uncharacteristic seven turnovers, narrowly missed his 19th career playoff triple-double with 25 points, 20 rebounds and nine assists and Michael Porter Jr. scored 26.

James had 30 points and 11 assists and Anthony Davis had 17 points and 15 rebounds but appeared bothered down the stretch after banging his left shoulder into Porter in the second half.

The Nuggets advanced to face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round starting next weekend. That series starts in Denver, where the Nuggets are a Western Conference-best 36-8, including 3-0 in the playoffs.

The Nuggets trailed for about three-fourths of the minutes in this series, they scuffled through extended shooting slumps and they're a banged-up bunch that can definitely use the rest.

“First of all, tip your hat to them,” James said. “Defending champions. They’re great team. Super-well coached and made the plays down the stretch to win the series. You give credit where credit is due, that’s for sure.”

Davis matched Murray’s 16 first-half points and the Lakers led 53-50 at halftime. They pushed that advantage to nine points but the Nuggets closed on a 21-10 run to take an 81-79 lead into the fourth quarter that was tight until the buzzer.

The Nuggets, who swept the Lakers in the Western Conference finals last summer on their way to winning the franchise's first NBA championship, beat the Lakers for the 12th time in their last 13 games.

The only other time James was eliminated in the first round of the playoffs came in 2021 when the Phoenix Suns beat L.A. in six games.

So, this was the shortest of James' 17 trips to the playoffs despite the Lakers taking the reigning champs to the brink in all five games.

“I couldn’t be more proud of our crew despite everything that happened,” said Lakers coach Darvin Ham, who's sure to be on the hot seat. “Obviously, the series didn’t go in our favor, didn’t start the way we wanted it to, but to win that one at home, fight tooth and nail today to get this one, our guys showed a lot of guts and a lot of character."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714487047588.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DENVER (AP) — Jamal Murray overcame a strained left calf, management's suggestion he sit this one out and another haymaker from the Los Angeles Lakers to score 32 points and sink the game-winner with 3.6 seconds left Monday night.That sent LeBron James to his earliest playoff exit ever and the Denver Nuggets tottering into Round 2 with a 108-106 win in Game 5 that featured 16 lead changes and 10 ties and was only secured when Taurean Prince's halfcourt heave fell short as time expired.“Shout-out to the Lakers, they gave us a great series,” said Murray, who also hit the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/denver-nuggets-los-angeles-lakers-score-c6101ac1b716a0dfde2b851993b80057">franchise's first playoff buzzer-beater</a>&nbsp;in Game 2.“Those are shots that you dream of as a little kid,” said Murray, who called this one just “a little better.”If not for his dogged determination — and defiance — Murray never would have had the chance to seal the series.“I came in a little earlier today to see if I was going to be able to go, and I felt like I could and they just didn't want me to risk it,” recounted Murray, who warmed up with an ice pack strapped to his injured calf. "They told me no. They told me no."And I didn't say no. I didn't want to leave my teammates out there,” added Murray, who missed 23 games due to injury in 2023-24. “We've been battling all season. Everybody's hurt at some point, everybody's going through something and I just wouldn't be able to live with myself if I wasn't able to play this game.”I'm just glad they listened to me — and listened to me listening to my body — and just trusting me with it."James' two free throws tied it at 106 with 26 seconds left and the Nuggets, just as they did in Game 2, eschewed the timeout and Murray took the ball on a high screen-and-roll to his left, shaking Austin Reaves as he crossed through the lane and swished the 14-footer.“That kid’s a warrior, man," Nuggets coach Michael Malone said. "The bigger the moment, the kid just continues to shine.”Nikola Jokic, who committed an uncharacteristic seven turnovers, narrowly missed his 19th career playoff triple-double with 25 points, 20 rebounds and nine assists and Michael Porter Jr. scored 26.James had 30 points and 11 assists and Anthony Davis had 17 points and 15 rebounds but appeared bothered down the stretch after banging his left shoulder into Porter in the second half.The Nuggets advanced to face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round starting next weekend. That series starts in Denver, where the Nuggets are a Western Conference-best 36-8, including 3-0 in the playoffs.Not that it has been easy.The Nuggets trailed for about three-fourths of the minutes in this series, they scuffled through extended shooting slumps and they're a banged-up bunch that can definitely use the rest.“First of all, tip your hat to them,” James said. “Defending champions. They’re great team. Super-well coached and made the plays down the stretch to win the series. You give credit where credit is due, that’s for sure.”Davis matched Murray’s 16 first-half points and the Lakers led 53-50 at halftime. They pushed that advantage to nine points but the Nuggets closed on a 21-10 run to take an 81-79 lead into the fourth quarter that was tight until the buzzer.The Nuggets, who swept the Lakers in the Western Conference finals last summer on their way to winning the franchise's first NBA championship, beat the Lakers for the 12th time in their last 13 games.The only other time James was eliminated in the first round of the playoffs came in 2021 when the Phoenix Suns beat L.A. in six games.So, this was the shortest of James' 17 trips to the playoffs despite the Lakers taking the reigning champs to the brink in all five games.“I couldn’t be more proud of our crew despite everything that happened,” said Lakers coach Darvin Ham, who's sure to be on the hot seat. “Obviously, the series didn’t go in our favor, didn’t start the way we wanted it to, but to win that one at home, fight tooth and nail today to get this one, our guys showed a lot of guts and a lot of character."

Murray's second game-winner sinks Lakers, Nuggets advance 108-106

Nebraska won the weekend series but couldn’t complete the sweep, as the Huskers fell 4-1 in the series finale against Iowa on Sunday at Hawks Field at Haymarket Park.

Nebraska (27-14, 10-5 Big Ten) scored a run on two hits and an error, while Iowa (24-17, 10-8 Big Ten) recorded four runs on eight hits.

Tyler Stone doubled and drew a walk, while Case Sanderson had a hit and a walk. Josh Caron drove in the Huskers’ lone run of the game.

Will Walsh dropped to 4-3 on the season, allowing three runs on five hits in 4.2 innings of action. Casey Daiss pitched one inning, giving up one run on a hit. Grant Cleavinger, Evan Borst, Rans Sanders, Kyle Perry and Kyle Froehlich combined to blank the Hawkeyes over the final 3.1 innings, holding Iowa to just two hits.

Iowa grabbed a 1-0 lead in the opening frame after a two-out walk, followed by an RBI double to left field.

A two-out solo homer to the left-field berm doubled the lead for the Hawkeyes in the second inning.

The Huskers plated their lone run of the game behind a pair of hits in the fourth inning. Riley Silva reached on a fielder’s choice, before Stone’s double to right-center had runners on second and third with one out for the Big Red. Caron lifted a sacrifice fly to right, scoring Silva and trimming the deficit to 2-1.

The Hawkeyes got the run back in the next half inning with a two-out solo homer into the Iowa bullpen in the top of the fifth.

Cole Evans opened the bottom of the fifth with a walk and later stole second, before moving to third on a wild pitch. The NU offense couldn’t get a timely two-out hit to bring home Evans and cut into the deficit.

Iowa had a runner on third with one out in the sixth after a leadoff double and a groundout to second. A wild pitch allowed the runner on third to jog on home to give the Hawkeyes a 4-1 advantage.

The Huskers were retired in order over the final three innings to preserve the three-run victory for the Hawkeyes in the series finale.

Nebraska returns to action with a midweek matchup at Creighton on Tuesday, April 30 at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714356856923.jpeg" alt="Husker Baseball" />
 <figcaption>Husker Baseball</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy: Husker AthleticsNebraska won the weekend series but couldn’t complete the sweep, as the Huskers fell 4-1 in the series finale against Iowa on Sunday at Hawks Field at Haymarket Park.Nebraska (27-14, 10-5 Big Ten) scored a run on two hits and an error, while Iowa (24-17, 10-8 Big Ten) recorded four runs on eight hits.Tyler Stone doubled and drew a walk, while Case Sanderson had a hit and a walk. Josh Caron drove in the Huskers’ lone run of the game.Will Walsh dropped to 4-3 on the season, allowing three runs on five hits in 4.2 innings of action. Casey Daiss pitched one inning, giving up one run on a hit. Grant Cleavinger, Evan Borst, Rans Sanders, Kyle Perry and Kyle Froehlich combined to blank the Hawkeyes over the final 3.1 innings, holding Iowa to just two hits.Iowa grabbed a 1-0 lead in the opening frame after a two-out walk, followed by an RBI double to left field.A two-out solo homer to the left-field berm doubled the lead for the Hawkeyes in the second inning.The Huskers plated their lone run of the game behind a pair of hits in the fourth inning. Riley Silva reached on a fielder’s choice, before Stone’s double to right-center had runners on second and third with one out for the Big Red. Caron lifted a sacrifice fly to right, scoring Silva and trimming the deficit to 2-1.The Hawkeyes got the run back in the next half inning with a two-out solo homer into the Iowa bullpen in the top of the fifth.Cole Evans opened the bottom of the fifth with a walk and later stole second, before moving to third on a wild pitch. The NU offense couldn’t get a timely two-out hit to bring home Evans and cut into the deficit.Iowa had a runner on third with one out in the sixth after a leadoff double and a groundout to second. A wild pitch allowed the runner on third to jog on home to give the Hawkeyes a 4-1 advantage.The Huskers were retired in order over the final three innings to preserve the three-run victory for the Hawkeyes in the series finale.Nebraska returns to action with a midweek matchup at Creighton on Tuesday, April 30 at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha.<h2>RELATED STORIES</h2>

Huskers take two of three from Iowa

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Kyle Tucker and the Houston Astros had a very successful stay in Mexico City.

Tucker, Jose Altuve and Jeremy Peña each hit a solo homer, helping Framber Valdez and the Astros beat the Colorado Rockies 8-2 on Sunday.

Tucker and Yainer Diaz each drove in two runs as Houston swept the two-game series at Alfredo Harp Helú Stadium.

“The plan was to use the series as a springboard looking forward,” Astros manager Joe Espada said. “We want this series to be like a new beginning for us. We need to have more urgency."

Valdez (1-0) pitched five innings of two-run ball in his first big league start since April 2. The left-hander allowed five hits, struck out six and walked none.

“He threw the ball well the first couple of innings," Espada said. "Command was not there, but he settled in the third and he gave us five innings. It was encouraging to see the way he threw the ball.”

Valdez had been sidelined by elbow inflammation, one of several pitching injuries that had contributed to Houston’s 9-19 start. Justin Verlander is back, but the Astros are awaiting the return of José Urquidy, Luis Garcia and Lance McCullers Jr. at some point this season.

"When the rotation is healthy, we have proved that we can do great things in the postseason,” Espada said.

Elias Díaz had two hits for Colorado, and Sean Bouchard and Jacob Stallings each drove in a run. Austin Gomber (0-2) was charged with four runs and six hits in seven innings.

“We have not played our best baseball and our record is indicative of that, but the players come with energy to compete. There has not been one sign of them not being happy,” manager Bud Black said. “We will continue to play hard."

Houston had lost five in a row before arriving in Mexico City, scoring a total of 10 runs during the slide. But it fared much better at Alfredo Harp Helu, with its elevation of 7,349 feet.

Yordan Alvarez hit two homers and Tucker also went deep during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/astros-rockies-score-mexico-e59bfeb0e73b01ad897774d82ea689d1">Saturday’s 12-4 victory</a>.

Tucker connected in the first inning in the finale of the two-game set. Altuve went deep in the third, and Peña hit his third homer in the fourth.

It was Houston’s second regular-season visit to Mexico. It swept two games in Monterrey against the Angels in May 2019.

The Astros also played exhibition games in Mexico against the Padres in 2016 and Marlins in 2004.

The Rockies also had played in Mexico before. They beat San Diego in Monterrey in their 1999 season opener.

Colorado pushed across two runs in the second, tying it at 2. Bouchard singled home Elias Díaz, and Stallings had a sacrifice fly.

Altuve responded with his seventh homer on a drive to left.

Houston broke it open with four runs in the eighth. Alex Bregman hit an RBI single, and Yainer Diaz added a two-run double.

Astros: RHP Hunter Brown (0-4, 9.68 ERA) is scheduled to start Tuesday night against Cleveland. Carlos Carrasco (1-2, 4.63 ERA) pitches for the Guardians.

Rockies: RHP Ryan Feltner (1-2, 5.68 ERA) will start the series opener against the Marlins on Tuesday in Miami.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714356687208.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MEXICO CITY (AP) — Kyle Tucker and the Houston Astros had a very successful stay in Mexico City.Tucker, Jose Altuve and Jeremy Peña each hit a solo homer, helping Framber Valdez and the Astros beat the Colorado Rockies 8-2 on Sunday.Tucker and Yainer Diaz each drove in two runs as Houston swept the two-game series at Alfredo Harp Helú Stadium.“The plan was to use the series as a springboard looking forward,” Astros manager Joe Espada said. “We want this series to be like a new beginning for us. We need to have more urgency."Valdez (1-0) pitched five innings of two-run ball in his first big league start since April 2. The left-hander allowed five hits, struck out six and walked none.“He threw the ball well the first couple of innings," Espada said. "Command was not there, but he settled in the third and he gave us five innings. It was encouraging to see the way he threw the ball.”Valdez had been sidelined by elbow inflammation, one of several pitching injuries that had contributed to Houston’s 9-19 start. Justin Verlander is back, but the Astros are awaiting the return of José Urquidy, Luis Garcia and Lance McCullers Jr. at some point this season."When the rotation is healthy, we have proved that we can do great things in the postseason,” Espada said.Elias Díaz had two hits for Colorado, and Sean Bouchard and Jacob Stallings each drove in a run. Austin Gomber (0-2) was charged with four runs and six hits in seven innings.The Rockies have dropped 11 of 14 games.“We have not played our best baseball and our record is indicative of that, but the players come with energy to compete. There has not been one sign of them not being happy,” manager Bud Black said. “We will continue to play hard."Houston had lost five in a row before arriving in Mexico City, scoring a total of 10 runs during the slide. But it fared much better at Alfredo Harp Helu, with its elevation of 7,349 feet.Yordan Alvarez hit two homers and Tucker also went deep during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/astros-rockies-score-mexico-e59bfeb0e73b01ad897774d82ea689d1">Saturday’s 12-4 victory</a>.Tucker connected in the first inning in the finale of the two-game set. Altuve went deep in the third, and Peña hit his third homer in the fourth.It was Houston’s second regular-season visit to Mexico. It swept two games in Monterrey against the Angels in May 2019.The Astros also played exhibition games in Mexico against the Padres in 2016 and Marlins in 2004.The Rockies also had played in Mexico before. They beat San Diego in Monterrey in their 1999 season opener.Colorado pushed across two runs in the second, tying it at 2. Bouchard singled home Elias Díaz, and Stallings had a sacrifice fly.Altuve responded with his seventh homer on a drive to left.Houston broke it open with four runs in the eighth. Alex Bregman hit an RBI single, and Yainer Diaz added a two-run double.UP NEXTAstros: RHP Hunter Brown (0-4, 9.68 ERA) is scheduled to start Tuesday night against Cleveland. Carlos Carrasco (1-2, 4.63 ERA) pitches for the Guardians.Rockies: RHP Ryan Feltner (1-2, 5.68 ERA) will start the series opener against the Marlins on Tuesday in Miami.