Originally was going to take the train from Topeka to Flagstaff, rent a car and drive down to the game. 22 hrs on the train sounded like a nightmare, but better than being in a cramped car. Train was $372.
Then started looking at Southwest flights. Managed to book MCI to Vegas for $150 and $170 back. Since we were going to rent a car anyway no extra $ there except for the gas. Vegas hotel was cheaper too. 5 hr drive from Vegas to Phoenix, but I'll totally get to see cool fun things like the Hoover Dam and Grand Canyon!