Game Preview: K-State vs. Utah
K-State Wildcats (9-8, 2-2 Big 12) will face off against the Utah Utes (12-4, 3-1 Big 12) on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 4 p.m. The game will take place at Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan, Kansas. If you can’t make it, catch the game live on ESPN+, featuring Brian Smoller and Missy Heidrick.
Last Matchup Insights
The series stands tied at 4-4. K-State’s head coach, Jeff Mittie, has faced Utah 19 times, boasting an 11-8 record against them. This will be the fifth time these teams meet in Manhattan since their last postseason clash in 2018.
Wildcats’ Key Players
Tess Heal: She scored 31 points against Houston recently, making her the 31st player in K-State history to achieve that milestone. Her standout moment included scoring 21 points in the fourth quarter, breaking the record for most points in a single quarter at K-State.
Taryn Sides: Another essential player, Sides is part of an exclusive group of seven players who have more than 250 assists and 150 three-pointers in their K-State careers.
Gina Garcia: Leading all Big 12 freshmen in assists, Garcia has also hit an impressive 89.7% from the free-throw line.
Strengths of the Wildcats
K-State plays exceptionally well at home, with a record of 417-161 inside Bramlage Coliseum. Under Mittie, the team has an impressive winning percentage, especially in non-conference games. Last season, K-State achieved a remarkable 17-1 record in home games.
Since Mittie’s arrival, K-State has maintained a significant edge when scoring 70 points or more—a benchmark they reached 11 times this season.
What to Watch in Utah
Utah comes off a close win against Kansas and has two players consistently scoring in double figures. Lani White averages 14.9 points per game, while Maty Wilke adds another 10.1.
Fun Facts
Historically, K-State ranks 21st in NCAA Division I women’s basketball for all-time wins. They’ve crossed over 1,000 victories, putting them in elite company alongside programs like UConn and NC State.
January marks a special month for the Wildcats. They recently broke the program record for wins in January, hitting 250.
K-State is not just building a legacy; they continue to write their story with impressive performances and records. As the Wildcats look forward to facing Utah, fans have plenty to be excited about.
For live stats and updates, check KStateSports.
