Kansas State Upsets No. 16 Kansas With 81-73 Win in Sunflower Showdown

Dug McDaniel reaches towards the goal for a lay up during the second half of the Sunflower Showdown in Bramlage Coliseum. Courtesy: Ashton Todd

KSU vs KU Post-Game Recap(Feat. Nate Lowen & Cooper Sturm)

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Wildcat Warm-Up

In a thrilling Sunflower Showdown, the Kansas State Wildcats defeated the Kansas Jayhawks 81-73 at Bramlage Coliseum on February 8, 2025. This win keeps Jerome Tang undefeated at home against the Jayhawks at 3-0. Junior transfer Dug McDaniel had an astounding game, scoring 15 points and 11 assists while also grabbing 6 rebounds. Transfers Coleman Hawkins and Max Jones each had 12 points. 

Opponent Match Up

The Kansas Jayhawks, ranked No. 16, entered the game with a 16-6 overall record and a 7-4 mark in Big 12. The Wildcats, standing at 11-11 overall and 5-6 in the conference, aimed to leverage their home-court advantage in this pivotal matchup.

Tip-off to Buzzer

First Half

The opening half was a tightly contested battle, with both teams exchanging leads multiple times. Kansas led for four minutes in the first half, the only lead they saw all game. Their dynamic backcourt spearheaded Kansas's offense, while K-State relied on a balanced scoring attack. The Wildcats' defense forced several turnovers, leading to fast-break opportunities. At halftime, the Wildcats held a slim lead, setting the stage for an intense second half.

Second Half

Kansas State came out with heightened intensity after the break. Senior forward David N'Guessan led the charge, contributing 20 points and 7 rebounds. Kansas State was lethal all day long from beyond the arc, shooting 40.7% from 3, going 11-27. The Wildcats' defense remained stout, limiting the Jayhawks' scoring opportunities and maintaining their lead down the stretch, as Coleman Hawkins' lob dunk to N’Guessan sealed the game. 

Courtside Conclusions

This victory marks a significant achievement for Kansas State, increasing their seeding in the Big 12 standings with a conference record of 6-6 and enhancing their NCAA tournament prospects while stilling on the outside looking in. The Wildcats showcased resilience and teamwork, with key contributions from both starters and bench players.

Head Coach Jerome Tang praised his team's effort: "Our guys played with heart and determination. We executed our game plan and made crucial plays when it mattered most."

David N'Guessan reflected on the win saying "It's always special to win against a rival like Kansas. We stayed focused and played our game."

Future Focus

Looking ahead, Kansas State will be at home on Tuesday, February 11th to face off against a new Big 12 opponent, the Arizona Wildcats who have had a successful season and sit at the top of the Big 12 currently. The game will be played at 7:00 on ESPN+ and can be listened to live on Wildcat 91.9 FM.   

For the latest updates and sports talk from 6-7 PM every week day, stay tuned to Wildcat 91.9.