Texas Tech and Kansas State Gear Up for a Big 12 Battle

It’s a big night for both the Texas Tech Red Raiders and Kansas State Wildcats as they face off on Tuesday in Manhattan, Kansas. Texas Tech is coming off a tough overtime loss and looking to get back on track, while Kansas State is hoping to snap a three-game losing streak. Both teams need a win—this one’s going to be intense!

Texas Tech: Ready to Bounce Back

The Red Raiders (11-4, 2-2 Big 12) are still reeling from a heartbreaker against Iowa State, losing 85-84 in overtime despite being up by nine points in the second half. It was a tough loss, especially with the game slipping away in the final seconds.

But before that, Texas Tech was rolling, having won two huge road games against Utah and BYU. They’ll be hoping to bring that same energy to Manhattan and keep their road game momentum going.

Key Players to Watch:

• JT Toppin: This guy is a beast. After missing some time with a knee injury, he’s been back and better than ever, averaging 17.3 points and 9.1 rebounds per game. He’s been showing out with big numbers and is primed for another strong performance.
• Darrion Williams, Chance McMillian, and Kevin Overton: These three have been consistent all season and are giving the Red Raiders the scoring depth they need.
• Christian Anderson: The freshman is starting to make a name for himself, contributing big minutes off the bench, and Coach McCasland has been loving his defensive energy.

Coach McCasland had some high praise for Anderson after the Iowa State game: “He doesn’t back down—he’s special-good in ball screens.”

Kansas State: Looking to Turn Things Around

Kansas State (7-8, 1-3 Big 12) has hit a rough patch. They’ve lost three in a row, including an 87-57 blowout at the hands of Houston on Saturday. The team is clearly going through a tough time, but Coach Jerome Tang is staying positive.

“We’re just not at their level yet, but our effort has been better,” Tang said, referring to the game against Houston. “We’re building something, and we’ll get there.”

Key Player to Watch:

• David N’Guessan: The Wildcats’ standout forward is their leading scorer (12.7 PPG) and rebounder (7.7 RPG). If Kansas State is going to have any shot at this game, it’ll be because of N’Guessan’s all-around play.

Tang is working hard to build a team with more depth: “Our goal is to have multiple players like N’Guessan who can impact the game at once.”

What’s at Stake

For Texas Tech, it’s all about getting back on track after the tough loss to Iowa State. They’ve been playing solid basketball, and they’ll be looking to stay perfect on the road. For Kansas State, they’re desperate to stop the bleeding and get a win, especially at home.

Texas Tech has a clear advantage on paper, with a more balanced roster and the strong play of Toppin and Anderson. But Kansas State has the home court and one of the most talented players in N’Guessan, so don’t count them out just yet.

This game has all the makings of a tight, competitive Big 12 showdown.