Kansas State Aims to Regain Momentum at Home

After a six-game winning streak put them in NCAA Tournament discussions, Kansas State has hit a rough patch. The Wildcats have lost back-to-back games against BYU and Utah and now look to rebound at home against Arizona State on Sunday in Manhattan, Kan.

Kansas State, now 13-13 overall and 7-8 in Big 12 play, can take confidence from its 71-70 comeback victory at Arizona State on Feb. 4. In that game, the Wildcats capitalized on missed free throws by the Sun Devils in the final seconds to escape with a one-point win.

During their winning streak, Kansas State knocked off four ranked teams, showcasing their ability to compete with the best. Head coach Jerome Tang wants his team to recapture that form and address key issues, particularly on the boards.

“In our six-game winning streak, we had three, and sometimes four, guards who had three-plus rebounds,” Tang said. “In the two games in Utah, our guards didn’t rebound. We need our guards to rebound for us.”

Arizona State Searching for Defensive Answers

Arizona State is in a free fall, having lost six straight games dating back to Feb. 1. The Sun Devils are struggling defensively, allowing 83.8 points per game during the losing streak, which has raised their season scoring defense to 74.4 points per game—third worst in the Big 12.

Their latest loss, an 80-65 defeat to Houston, came against the nation’s top-ranked defense. But ASU coach Bobby Hurley was more impressed with Houston’s offensive execution.

“(LJ) Cryer is a really tough matchup,” Hurley said. “We lost him and we lost (Emanuel) Sharp some in the second half. They have shooting and they have fierce interior players that can really get stuff done.”

The Sun Devils have struggled in clutch moments, including their last meeting with Kansas State, when they had a chance to win but missed two critical free throws with 4.1 seconds remaining.

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Key Adjustments for Both Teams

For Kansas State, improving rebounding and regaining their defensive intensity will be crucial. The Wildcats thrived during their winning streak by getting production from their guards on the glass, and Tang hopes they can get back to that style of play.

For Arizona State, stopping their defensive slide is the top priority. If they can limit Kansas State’s second-chance opportunities and execute in late-game situations, they could steal a much-needed win.

Can Kansas State Get Back on Track?

Kansas State has the home-court advantage and a recent win over Arizona State to lean on, but the Sun Devils are desperate to end their losing streak. Can the Wildcats break their slump, or will Arizona State finally get back in the win column? The rematch will provide answers.