Oklahoma State Edges K-State in Nail-Biting Finish
In a thrilling game at Gallagher-Iba Arena, Oklahoma State secured an 84-83 victory over K-State. The match was intense, featuring 13 lead changes and 11 ties. Sophomore Vyctorius Miller was the hero, hitting all three free throws with just 2.8 seconds left on the clock.
K-State, now 0-5 in Big 12 play, had taken an 83-81 lead thanks to junior P.J. Haggerty’s jumper. But Oklahoma State refused to back down. After a series of missed shots and crucial rebounds, Miller’s free throws put the Cowboys ahead for good.
Haggerty led K-State with 21 points, marking his 13th game scoring 20 or more this season. He also recorded eight rebounds and three assists. His performance is noteworthy; he is the first Wildcat to start a season with 18 consecutive games in double digits since Jacob Pullen in 2010-11. Other key contributors for K-State were Khamari McGriff and Nate Johnson, both scoring 14 points.
Oklahoma State countered with Anthony Roy’s 23 points and solid teamwork to capitalize on K-State’s 16 turnovers, scoring 26 points off those mistakes. The Cowboys shot 83.3% from the free-throw line, a significant factor in their win.
The first half ended with Oklahoma State leading 48-43. Both teams shot well, with K-State making notable strides from the three-point line. They recorded 15 three-pointers, tying for the second-most in a Big 12 game, showcasing their shooting prowess.
K-State’s coach, Jerome Tang, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to coach in such an intense game but was visibly frustrated by the outcome, particularly the late-game calls. He emphasized the need for his players to control their defensive play to reduce fouls and mistakes as they move forward.
This loss marks a low point for K-State, making it the first time since the 1996-97 season that they have started 0-5 in the Big 12. Despite the defeat, the team displayed energy and effort, setting a foundation for potential improvements in future games.
K-State will look to bounce back when they host Utah in their next matchup, hoping to leverage their shooting skills and teamwork to secure a win.
For more details on K-State men’s basketball, you can visit K-State Sports.
