Kansas State basketball is gearing up to kick off its Big 12 Conference play as it prepares to host No. 10 BYU on Saturday, January 3, at 12:30 p.m. The game, taking place at Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan, will be broadcast live on CBS.
The Wildcats enter this matchup after experiencing an up-and-down non-conference schedule. With a current record of 9-4, they have rebounded from a four-game losing streak to secure four consecutive victories. One standout during this resurgence has been guard PJ Haggerty, who delivered an explosive performance against Louisiana-Monroe and is expected to leverage this momentum as they face formidable opponents in the conference.
BYU, boasting a remarkable record of 12-1, comes into the encounter riding a nine-game winning streak and is recognized for having one of the nation’s premier talents in freshman AJ Dybantsa. Dybantsa, who stands at 6-foot-8, has been touted as a potential No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft and is currently averaging an impressive 23.1 points per game. His standout performances, including recent games where he scored 35 and 33 points, place him among the elite players this season.
As Kansas State prepares for this crucial match, Haggerty will need to rise to the challenge. He closely trails Dybantsa in scoring, averaging 22.9 points per game. Despite earlier challenges against top-notch teams, Haggerty’s recent performances indicate he is regaining consistency and aims to step up when it matters most.
Both teams are well-regarded in various national polls, with BYU currently ranked 10th and Kansas State unranked but looking to make a significant statement in their conference opener. The Cougars are noted for their proficiency in maintaining discipline on the court, committing few fouls and turnovers while boasting a high effective field goal percentage of 57.7%. Additionally, BYU’s defense has been stellar, allowing just 66.6 points per game and excelling in steals, making them a formidable opponent for the Wildcats.
While BYU’s starters have excelled, Kansas State’s depth may offer an advantageous edge. The Wildcats have received substantial contributions from their bench, particularly from David Castillo, who averages 13.3 points. If Kansas State can harness its bench strength and ensure Haggerty performs at his peak, they will have a shot to challenge BYU effectively.
However, the matchup poses significant challenges for Kansas State. Predictions indicate a competitive game, with BYU favored to come away with a win, potentially scoring 92 to Kansas State’s 84. As the game approaches, both teams are keen to make their mark early in the Big 12 season, with Kansas State hoping to revise its trajectory after a rocky start.