2017 ONPA Pictures of the Year

First Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / The Columbus Dispatch

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Ohio State men's basketball player Jae'Sean Tate poses for a portrait on October 27, 2017. Tate's mother was murder by her boyfriend when he was a child. Tate talked about his mother and the murder for the first time. “It took a few years until I actually started to calm down and become who I am today, but without that happening I don’t think I would be here.”

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / The Columbus Dispatch

Columbus Clippers center fielder Tyler Naquin (6) steals a base at third base as Gwinnett Braves third baseman Carlos Franco (58) jumps over Naquin during their game at Huntington Park in Columbus on June 16, 2017.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Tom Amsbry of Rose Bowl Aquatics dives into the water from the 10m platform during the 16-18 Boys Platform J.O. Preliminary at the 2017 USA Diving National Championships at McCorkle Aquatic Pavilion on the campus of the Ohio State University on August 1, 2017. The Championships run through August 12th.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Groveport football players hold up their helmets during kickoff against Westerville North High School during their High School football game at Groveport-Madison High School on August 25, 2017.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Marion-Franklin Dave Davis (23) breaks through the sign with a baseball bat before their game against Walnut Ridge at Marion-Franklin High School on October 20, 2017.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Ohio State Buckeyes hold up the Field Scovell Trophy after beating USC Trojans in the 82nd Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on December 29, 2017.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Photo by Kyle Robertson

Columbus Crew SC forward Justin Meram (9) goes up for a header that hit the cross bar against Toronto FC in the 2nd half of the first leg of the MLS Eastern Conference finals at MAPFRE stadium in Columbus, Ohio on November 21, 2017.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / The Columbus Dispatch

Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Scott Harrington (54) gets his stick under the neck of Buffalo Sabres left wing Evan Rodrigues (71) in the 2nd period during their NHL game at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio on March 28, 2017.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver C.J. Saunders (80) tries to return a kickoff during heavy downpour against Illinois Fighting Illini during the 4th quarter of their game at Ohio Stadium on November 18, 2017. It rained the whole second half of the football game.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Louisville Bats second basemen Darnell Sweeney (29) makes a catch while running into teammate right fielder Sebastian Elizalde (9) against Columbus Clippers during their game at Huntington Park on September 4, 2017.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) plants the Sooner flag in the Ohio State logo at midfield after beating Ohio State Buckeyes 31-16 at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio on September 9, 2017.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Ohio State Buckeyes running back Mike Weber (25) gets a his face masked pulled by USC Trojans cornerback Isaiah Langley (24) during the 1st half at the 82nd Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on December 29, 2017. Face masking was called on USC Trojans cornerback Isaiah Langley (24).

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Ohio State Buckeyes tight end Marcus Baugh (85) jumps into the air to score a touchdown after a catch during the 2nd quarter at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio on October 7, 2017.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Individual finalist walk out to the mat before the start of 2017 OHSAA Individual State Wrestling Tournament Finals in Schottenstein Center in Columbus, Ohio on March 10, 2017.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

In 2003 at the age of 21-years old Juan Morel went to prison for three years after the death of his five-month old daughter. After his release Juan dedicated his life to becoming a professional body builder. Juan never thought he wanted to start another family until he meet his future wife, Karen, a professional body builder, at a competition. Juan and Karen married in 2012 and welcomed their daughter Izabella in 2016. Juan decided that he needed his wife and daughter at very event that he competes at. This makes Juan unlike any other professional bodybuilder at the Arnold Classic.

Arnold Classic competitor Juan Morel waits to enter the stage before the Arnold Classic in Columbus, Ohio on March 4, 2017.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Juan Morel eats a meal in his hotel room while is mother, Manuela, watches his daughter Izabella and wife, Karen, looks on in his hotel room in Columbus, Ohio on March 2, 2017. Juan is one of the only classic competitors that brings his family with him for a show.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Juan's wife Karen checks out Juan's posing in the pump-up room before Arnold Classic prejudging in Columbus, Ohio on March 4, 2017. Karen was the only wife backstage before prejudging.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Arnold Classic competitor Juan Morel gets his first coat of spray tanning by Darla Schwartz late Friday night in Columbus, Ohio on March 2, 2017. Juan will get a second coat in the morning before the start of the event.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Arnold Classic competitor Juan Morel poses during the Arnold Classic prejudging in Columbus, Ohio on March 4, 2017.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Juan's wife Karen yells for him to hold his chest up while holding their daughter during the Arnold Classic prejudging in Columbus, Ohio on March 4, 2017.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson /

Juan gets a couple quick pumps in before hitting the stage for the first time before Arnold Classic final in Columbus, Ohio on March 4, 2017. .

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Arnold Classic competitor Juan Morel stops to get his daughter, Izabella, as she tries to crawl away during a meet and greet with a fan at the Hilton Hotel. Juan has become fan favorite over the past couple of years.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Arnold Classic competitor Juan Morel walks around the crowd flexing yelling during the Arnold Classic final in Columbus, Ohio on March 4, 2017.

, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Kyle Robertson / Columbus Dispatch

Arnold Classic competitor Juan Morel kisses his wife, Karen, after finishing in 5th place in Arnold Classic final in Columbus, Ohio on March 4, 2017. Juan placed 6th last year and was happy with his move up this year.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

Southview's Lauren Micham smiles as she crosses the finish line to win the Division I 100 meter hurdles at the OHSAA 43d Annual Girls State Track and Field Tournament Saturday, June 3, 2017, at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus. Her time of 13.66 seconds broke the stadium record and put her in second place for the all-time state record in all divisions.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / THE BLADE/KATIE RAUSCH

Toledo's Taylor Adway (2) reacts after being fouled but sinking his shot during the second half of the Tuesday, February 28, 2017, men's basketball match up against Ball State at the University of Toledo's Savage Arena. Ball State won, 82-74.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

Michigan's Chris Evans (12) leaps over the Michigan State defense on the run in the first half of the Saturday, October 7, 2017, football match up at the Big House in Ann Arbor. Michigan State won, 14-10.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

Rogers' Jordan Hayward, left, and Divontae Fitzgerald, right, go up against St. John's Karen Bolden (22) for a rebound in the first half of the Friday, December 1, 2017, men's basketball match up at St. John's Jesuit in Toledo. St. John's won, 89-52.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

Cardinal Stritch's boys basketball team, from left, Jordan Burton, Collin Yost, Terrance Taylor Jr., Alex Adams, Jeff Dunsmore, Little Anderson, and Joey Holifield are pictured Wednesday, November 22, 2017, at their gym in Oregon. The team is predicted to win the Toledo Area Athletic Conference.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

Ashland's Healther Jamieson is carried off the track after collapsing at the finish line of the 1600 Meter Run at the Division I Region 2 Track and Field Championship meet Friday, May 26, 2017, at Amherst Steele High School.

$Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie RauschEastwood's senior Cade Boos is embraced as his teammates head in at halftime during the Friday, October 6, 2017, at Otsego High School in Tontogany. Boos, three-sport standout, fractured his leg four plays into the team's season-opener. He is supporting his team from the sidelines during a great season. Eastwood beat Otsego, 39-0.$
Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

Eastwood's senior Cade Boos is embraced as his teammates head in at halftime during the Friday, October 6, 2017, at Otsego High School in Tontogany. Boos, three-sport standout, fractured his leg four plays into the team's season-opener. He is supporting his team from the sidelines during a great season. Eastwood beat Otsego, 39-0.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

Maumee's Jordan Key (4) is comforted by teammate Bryan Pouter (18) after being beat to first base in the Thursday, June 1, 2017, Division II state baseball semifinal against Tallmadge at Huntington Park in Columbus. Tallmadge won, 4-1, ending Maumee's season.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

Archbold's bench, including Brandon Miller (11), cheers after Archbold's Rigo Ramos (23) scored during the Saturday, March 18, 2017, Division III regional basketball championship match up against Marion at the University of Toledo's Savage Arena. Archbold won, 48-24.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

Indianapolis' Eric Wood (14) Christopher Bostick, center and Gift Ngoepe, right, can't make the catch off a Mud Hens hit in the bottom of the first inning during the Saturday, April 15, 2017, baseball match up at Fifth Third Field in downtown Toledo.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade

From left: Toledo's Janice Monakana is hugged by Kaayla McIntyre as Mariella Santucci, center, embraces by Sara Rokkanen (1) and Jay-Ann Bravo-Harriott (11) hugs Sophie Reecher, right, after they beat Northern Illinois to win the Saturday, March 11, 2017, women's basketball MAC Championship match up at the Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland. Toledo won, 82-71.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

Members of the all-male Kenny Mummert Memorial League cherish their old alley and old friendships as they bowl together at Twin Oakes Lanes in North Toledo. The bowling alley opened on Dec. 7, 1941 and is now celebrating its 75th year in business. The two trees the alley is named for are gone, but the 12 lanes of bowling and countless memories remain.

Todd Rowland tries to pick up a last pin while bowling with the Kenny Mummert Memorial League Monday, April 24, 2017, at Twin Oakes Lanes in North Toledo.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

Kenny Mummert Memorial League secretary and treasurer Denny Hollerbach makes an announcement to his league members Monday, April 24, 2017, at Twin Oakes Lanes in North Toledo. Mr. Hollerbach keeps things running smoothly, and dispenses money to players based on points they accrue while blowing as teams.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

Dave McHenry, center right, lines up his shot as he bowls with other members of the Kenny Mummert Memorial League at Twin Oakes Lanes in North Toledo.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

A bower lines up his shot under the rows of plaques bearing the handwritten names of alley record holders at Twin Oakes Lanes in North Toledo. Many of the alley's records are kept by hand.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

As the only child present, Rose, 2, watches cartoons while her father bowls with other members of the Kenny Mummert Memorial League at Twin Oakes Lanes in North Toledo. The league awards cash prizes for strikes and spares; the all-male teams keep track with playing cards. Rose's mother is tends bar at the alley.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

Bill Caster, left, is congratulated on a strike by Denny Hollerbach, center, as members of the Kenny Mummert Memorial League play together at Twin Oakes Lanes in North Toledo. The league awards cash prizes for strikes and spares; the all-male teams keep track with playing cards.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

Bowling pins autographed by professional bowlers and local favorites line the counter at Twin Oakes Lanes in North Toledo.

Second Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Katie Rausch / The Blade/Katie Rausch

Jim Gottlieb, left, is cheered other members of the Kenny Mummert Memorial League after throwing a strike at Twin Oakes Lanes in North Toledo. Mr. Gottlieb was the only member of the league to bowl two 300's that night and was challenged to throw one more strike. Once he did, each member was awarded $5 from the league. "It was a lot of pressure," he joked after the fact.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

Bethany Berger of Glen Este competes during the OHSAA Division I state diving championships at C.T. Branin Natatorium in Canton on February 23, 2017.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

The helmet of goalie Keith Kinkaid (1) of the New Jersey Devils flies off as he is hit by Nick Foligno (71) of the Columbus Blue Jackets during Tuesday's hockey game at Nationwide Arena in Columbus on March 7, 2017.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

Ohio State safety Jeff Okudah signs autographs for young fans following the spring football game at Ohio Stadium in Columbus on Saturday, April 15, 2017.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

Hunter Kosco of Canal Fulton Northwest celebrates a win over Addison Fogle of Newark Licking Valley at 126 lbs. in Division II during Friday's OHSAA championship wrestling tournament at Value City Arena in Columbus on March 10, 2017.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

UNLV Rebels running back Lexington Thomas (3) scores a touchdown while defended by Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Baron Browning (5) during the second quarter of Saturday's NCAA Division I football game at Ohio Stadium in Columbus on September 23, 2017.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

Micah Potter (0) of the Ohio State Buckeyes and Sherack Malokwu (33) of the Wooster Fighting Scots tip-off during Sunday's basketball game at Value City Arena in Columbus on November 5, 2017.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

Chad Douglas (57) and Daleron McCarrell (1) of Independence celebrate following a 44-34 win over Walnut Ridge in Friday night's football game at Walnut Ridge High School in Columbus on October 27, 2017. Independence secured the City League South title with the win.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

Nervous Buckeye fans watch apprehensively near the end of Sunday's NCAA Division I basketball game against the Northwestern Wildcats at Value City Arena in Columbus on January 22, 2017. Northwestern won the game 74-72.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

Evie Laney leans on a post in the warm-up arena outide the Celeste Center before competing in NRHA Youth Reining (14-18) during the Quarter Horse Congress at the Ohio Expo Center on Saturday, October 7, 2017. The Congress is the largest single breed-horse show in the world with over 23,500 horse show entries and nearly 6,000 registered American Quarter Horses competing.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

Ohio State Buckeyes running back Mike Weber (25) dances into the end zone for a touchdown during the second half of Saturday's NCAA Division I football game against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on November 25, 2017. Ohio State won the game 31-20.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

The Ohio State Buckeyes pass around the Amos Alonzo Stagg Championship Trophy while celebrating a 27-21 win over the Wisconsin Badgers in the Big Ten Championship game at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on Sunday, December 3, 2017.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

Established in 2008, Pelotonia is a weekend of cycling, entertainment and volunteerism with the objective to fund life-saving cancer research. Riders can ride for one or two days and complete 25 to 180 miles during the event.

Vinay Rao sports festive socks while arriving at the Pelotonia finish line at Kenyon College in Gambier.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

Spectators hold handmade signs while waiting for riders to arrive at the 180-mile Pelotonia finish line in New Albany.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

Holding a sign that says, "Never, Never, Never Forget," Teresa Bentley of Hilliard, left, is comforted by Cheryl Harris of Hilliard, right, for Bentley's husband, Tommy, who passed away in June, at the 180-mile Pelotonia finish line at Kenyon College in Gambier .

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

A large group of riders arrive at the Pelotonia finish line at Kenyon College in Gambier.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

Melonoma and cervical cancer survivor Shannon Rece of Hilliard, who rode 55 miles, gets a hug from her mother Anita Fitzpatrick, also of Hilliard, at the Pelotonia finish line at Kenyon College in Gambier.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

Names of a rider's honorees are written on her legs are the Pelotonia finish line in New Albany.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

Alan and Kathy Koontz of Team Buckeye CTCL ride hand-in-hand across the Pelotonia finish line in New Albany. Kathy is a high roller fundraiser and a cancer survivor who was treated at the OSU James Cancer Hospital, which benefits financially from Pelotonia.

Third Place, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Barbara J. Perenic / The Columbus Dispatch

L Brands rider Jeff Polesovsky of Upper Arlington holds his 2-year-old daughter Ella after arriving at the Pelotonia finish line in New Albany. This was Jeff's third year riding and his second as a high roller fundraiser.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene/The Enquirer / The Cincinnati Enquirer

The UC cheerleaders celebrate with confetti and streamers after the America Athletic Conference game between the Cincinnati Bearcats and the Houston Cougars at UC's Fifth Third Arena in Cincinnati on Thursday, March 2, 2017. The Bearcats beat the Cougars, 65-27, to finish the regular season undefeated at home. The Bearcats will return to Fifth Third Arena in 2018 after playing a season a Northern Kentucky University's BB&T Arena.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

East Tennessee State Buccaneers guard Andre Edwards (44) pulls in a defensive rebound in the first half of the NCAA basketball game between the Xavier Musketeers and the East Tennessee State Buccaneers at the Cintas Center in Cincinnati on Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017. At halftime the Musketeers trailed 39-27.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver A.J. Green (18) pulls back to throw a punch to the helmet of Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Jalen Ramsey (20) after a play late in the second quarter of the NFL Week 9 game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Cincinnati Bengals at EverBank Field in Jacksonville, Fla., on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017. Both players were ejected for fighting, despite Ramsey having not thrown a punch, citing his instigation of Green.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Philadelphia Phillies third baseman Maikel Franco (7) slides in safe at home ahead of a tag from Cincinnati Reds catcher Tucker Barnhart (16) on a Michael Saunders double to center field in the top of the first inning of the MLB Opening Day game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Philadelphia Phillies at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati on Monday, April 3, 2017.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

FC Cincinnati forward Djiby Fall (9) drops to his knees in celebration as time expires in the second half of the US Open Cup soccer match between FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew at Nippert Stadium in Cincinnati on Wednesday, June 14, 2017. FC Cincinnati defeated its MLS opponent, 1-0, in front of a record crowd of more than 30,000 fans, advancing to the next round of the US Open Cup.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

If it weren't for Scooter's bat and Billy's glove there might not have been any photos from this Reds season. As the team rebuilds we're all sort of just along for the ride and the daily grind can get pretty monotonous. Fortunately the Reds currently employ one of the most exciting players in baseball and he can throw a few nice photos your way if you're paying attention.

Cincinnati Reds center fielder Billy Hamilton (6) bounces off the right-centerfield wall as he catches a deep fly ball off the bat of Milwaukee Brewers right fielder Domingo Santana (16) in the top of the second inning of the MLB National League game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Milwaukee Brewers at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati on Thursday, April 13, 2017.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Xavier Musketeers guard Trevon Bluiett (5) drives past Hampton Pirates guard Lysander Bracey (33) in the first half of the NCAA men's basketball game between the Xavier Musketeers and the Hampton Pirates at the Cintas Center in Cincinnati on Monday, Nov. 20, 2017.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

The Cincinnati Bearcats celebrate with the Victory Bell after the fourth quarter of the NCAA college football game between the Miami Redhawks and the Cincinnati Bearcats at Yager Stadium in Oxford, Ohio, on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2017. The Bearcats won 21-17 after an intercepted RedHawks pass was returned for a touchdown with just over one minute remaining in the game. UC retains the Victory Bell for the 12th-straight year.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

The Cincinnati Bearcats student section celebrates as UC scores its first basket of the game in the 84th annual Crosstown Shoutout game between the Cincinnati Bearcats and the Xavier Musketeers at UC's Fifth Third Arena in Cincinnati on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) runs on to the field as he's introduced ahead of the first quarter of the NFL Week 13 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Pittsburgh Steelers at Paul Brown Stadium in downtown Cincinnati on Monday, Dec. 4, 2017.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Xavier Musketeers guard J.P. Macura (55) and Cincinnati Bearcats guard Troy Caupain (10) jockey for a rebound in the second half of the 84th annual Crosstown Shootout game between the Cincinnati Bearcats and the Xavier Musketeers at UC's Fifth Third Arena in Cincinnati on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017. The Bearcats overcame a 44-36 halftime deficit to win 86-78 before a sell out crowd.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

FC Cincinnati sets a USL Home Opener record as 23,144 fans fill the stands in the second half of the USL soccer match between FC Cincinnati and Saint Louis FC at Nippert Stadium in Cincinnati, on Saturday, April 15, 2017. FC Cincinnati won 4-0 over Saint Louis. All four of Cincinnati's goals were scored by Djiby Fall.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Cincinnati Bearcats running back Mike Boone (5) leaps and stretches to put the ball across the goal line for a game-tying 2-point conversion in the fourth quarter of the NCAA football game between the Cincinnati Bearcats and the Connecticut Huskies at Nippert Stadium in Cincinnati on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2017. The Bearcats took a 22-21 win on senior day after the Huskies missed an extra point attempt with no time left on the clock.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) is brought down by Jacksonville Jaguars outside linebacker Myles Jack (44) with no flag thrown in the first quarter of the NFL Week 9 game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Cincinnati Bengals at EverBank Field in Jacksonville, Fla., on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Despite stumbling in the regular season, and falling short in the Big East Tournament, the Xavier Musketeers received an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament. Coming in as an 11-seed, the Musketeers pulled off a string of major upsets to secure a trip the the Elite 8, for just the third time in the program's history. The team was stopped short of a program-first Final Four big by the No. 1 seeded Gonzaga Bulldogs.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Xavier Musketeers forward Kaiser Gates (22) throws down a dunk after breaking away down the court in the second half of the NCAA Tournament First Round game between the Maryland Terrapins and the Xavier Musketeers at the Amway Center in Orlando, Fla., on Thursday, March 16, 2017. Xavier pulled ahead for a 76-65 win over Maryland, advancing to the Round of 32.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Senior guard Malcolm Bernard talks to the press in the locker room after the the NCAA Tournament First Round game against the Maryland Terrapins.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

The Xavier band and cheerleaders perform during a pep rally at Ferg's in downtown Orlando, Fla., on Saturday, March 18, 2017. The 11-seeded Musketeers take on the 3-seeded Florida State Seminoles for a berth in the Sweet 16.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Xavier Musketeers forward Tyrique Jones (0) screams in celebration as he enters the locker room after an upset win over the 3-seeded Florida State Seminoles on Saturday, March 18, 2017. The 11-seeded Musketeers controlled both halves of the game, defeating the Seminoles, 91-66, advancing to the Sweet 16.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Xavier Musketeers head coach Chris Mack's wife Christi walks to the post game press conference with their son Brayden after the NCAA Tournament Second Round game between the Florida State Seminoles and the Xavier Musketeers.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Student manager Alex Poedtke shows off the team's "urn" holding the ashes of the team's February calendar in the locker room a practice session ahead of the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 matchup between the Xavier Musketeers and the Arizona Wildcats at the SAP Center in San Jose, Calif., on Wednesday, March 22, 2017.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Head coach Chris Mack's daughters Lainee and Hailee hide behind a whiteboard as media fills the locker room after a practice session ahead of the Sweet 16 matchup.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Injured star guard Edmond Sumner walks off the bus on crutches arrives at the arena ahead of the Sweet 16 matchup between the Xavier Musketeers and the Arizona Wildcats at the SAP Center in San Jose, Calif., on Thursday, March 23, 2017. Sumner would declare for the draft shortly after the season finale.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Xavier Musketeers forward RaShid Gaston (35) protects the ball on a rebound from Arizona Wildcats guard Kadeem Allen (5) in the first half of the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 matchup between the Xavier Musketeers and the Arizona Wildcats at the SAP Center in San Jose, Calif., on Thursday, March 23, 2017.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Xavier Musketeers guard Trevon Bluiett (5) and guard J.P. Macura (55) hug as they celebrate after the final buzzer of the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 game between the Xavier Musketeers and Arizona Wildcats at the SAP Center in San Jose, Calif., on Thursday, March 23, 2017. Xavier advanced to the Elite 8 with a 73-71 upset win over the 2-seeded Arizona Wildcats.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Xavier Musketeers guard Malcolm Bernard (11) passes away a loose ball from the floor in the first half of the NCAA Tournament Elite 8 game between the Gonzaga Bulldogs and the Xavier Musketeers at the SAP Center in San Jose, Calif., on Saturday, March 25, 2017.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Johnathan Williams (3) and the bench cheer after Williams throws down a dramatic dunk. Gonzaga would eventually advance to the National Title game where they were defeated by North Carolina.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Xavier Musketeers forward Tyrique Jones (0) shouts for a foul after the Musketeers drive down the court in the second half. Xavier was eliminated from the tournament after an 83-59 loss to the 1-seeded Bulldogs.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Xavier Musketeers guard Trevon Bluiett (5) hangs his head and wipes away tears as time expires in the second half of the NCAA Tournament Elite 8 game between the Gonzaga Bulldogs and the Xavier Musketeers at the SAP Center in San Jose, Calif., on Saturday, March 25, 2017. Xavier was eliminated from the tournament after an 83-59 loss to the 1-seeded Bulldogs.

Award of Excellence, Ron Kuntz Sports Photographer of the Year - Sam Greene / The Cincinnati Enquirer

Musketeers senior RaShid Gaston hangs his head as he takes questions from reporters in the locker room for the final time of his college career after the Elite 8 loss to the Gonzaga Bulldogs on Saturday, March 25, 2017. Xavier fell short of a program first Final Four berth, but was just the third team in school history to make it to the Elite 8.