Cleveland Cavaliers and Former Wildcats Shine in Sports

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Dean Wade, a key player for the Cleveland Cavaliers, has been instrumental in the team’s journey through the NBA playoffs. With the Cavaliers holding the top seed in the Eastern Conference, they are set to face the Indiana Pacers in the second round of the playoffs. Wade, in his sixth season with the Cavaliers, has played in 59 games this year, averaging 5.4 points per game, but his defensive skills stand out more.

Wade’s versatility allows him to guard multiple positions at a high level, which has been crucial for the Cavaliers as they aim for a Finals appearance. “I just want to help my team win in any way I can,” Wade said after practice. “Defensive effort is where I can make the biggest impact.”

In addition to Wade’s accomplishments, former Kansas State wide receiver Tyler Lockett signed a one-year contract with the Tennessee Titans following his 10 seasons with the Seattle Seahawks. At 33, Lockett brings veteran experience to Tennessee’s young receiving corps and will be an asset for rookie quarterback Cam Ward. “I may not have the same speed, but I can still create space and make plays,” Lockett said.

Meanwhile, in professional baseball, former Wildcat prospect Carter Culpepper is proving himself with the Cedar Rapids Kernels, the High-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. After 15 games, he holds a .345 batting average, with two home runs. His performance has caught the attention of scouts, and a promotion may be imminent.

Another former player, Logan Neighbors, is also excelling this season with the Fort Wayne TinCaps, the High-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres. Neighbors, who ranks as the No. 15 prospect in the Padres system, has a 0.77 ERA in nine games, striking out 22 batters. His impressive stats suggest he could soon be moving up the ranks.

Addison Martini is navigating his sixth season in Major League Baseball with the Colorado Rockies. After signing earlier this year, Martini has participated in 28 games, hitting .242. As the Rockies look to improve, Martini’s consistency at the plate remains a positive for the team.

Finally, K-State women’s basketball standout Ayoka Lee made her professional debut on May 4 with the Seattle Storm, but was waived shortly after due to roster cuts. Despite setbacks, Lee’s determination remains strong. “It was a learning experience, and I’m looking forward to what comes next,” she stated.