K-State 15-9 (5-6)
Kansas State’s previous game against No. 19 BYU resulted in a six-point loss with some strong performances. Forward Arthur Kaluma led scoring with 18 points and 8 rebounds while forward Will McNair Jr. racked up 10 rebounds and three blocks. The Wildcats must limit turnovers — they had 16 against BYU — and have a more explosive game in the first half to battle TCU. This matchup will determine if the Wildcats are ready for March.
TCU 17-7 (6-5)
The TCU Horned Frogs come into the K-State game with confidence. They beat their last opponent, West Virginia, by 16 points without help from injured guard Avery Anderson III. Forward Emanuel Miller and guards Jameer Nelson Jr. and Trevian Tennyson were the leading scorers of the game with 14 points each. TCU is a tough team to beat if they have a strong first half and continue playing good defense.
Matchup to Watch: Cam Carter vs. Emanuel Miller
In the past few games, Carter contributed greatly to the Wildcats with his scoring ability and defense. Carter averages 15.9 points per game and 1.6 steals per game. He shows great court awareness, using backdoor cuts to his advantage, and knows how to move well without the ball.
Miller also sees success on the court. He averages 16.4 points per game along with 5.8 rebounds per game. Miller is best inside the paint, knowing how to clean up after his teammates if they miss a shot in the key. He can also shoot the 3 when needed, averaging 40% from the arc.
The head-to-head battle between these two will have a great impact on the game. Carter’s ability to slow down Miller while also contributing offensively is crucial to the Wildcats’ chances of securing another Big 12 victory.
Key Players
K-State
Guard Cam Carter
Forward Arthur Kaluma
TCU
Forward Emanuel Miler
Guard Trevian Tennyson
Prediction: 72-60 TCU