Kansas State Edges Past Cal 99-96 in Thrilling Encounter

Post by : Mara Rahim

Kansas State started with high energy, setting the stage early in the match with impressive shooting in the first half. This momentum enabled them to dominate the initial exchanges, exhibiting sharp ball movement and effective scoring.

P.J. Haggerty emerged as a pivotal player, contributing 23 key points that were essential for Kansas State’s lead. His ability to deliver decisive shots kept the Wildcats ahead, even as Cal pressed hard to close the gap. Haggerty's composed shooting was vital in clinching the win.

Khamari McGriff also shone brightly, scoring 21 points, showcasing strength and finesse near the basket, bolstering the team's confidence whenever Cal seemed poised to surge. Nate Johnson rounded out the scoring with 20 points, playing a crucial role in a significant 9-0 run early in the second half, which expanded Kansas State’s lead to 24 points. His timely contributions ensured the Wildcats maintained a comfortable edge for much of the game.

David Castillo made an impactful bench contribution with 16 points, excelling from the perimeter by nailing 4 out of 6 three-pointers, maintaining his impressive shooting streak. In his last two games, Castillo has converted 9 out of 11 attempts from beyond the arc, affirming his value as a shooter for the team.

Despite Kansas State’s first-half dominance, Cal showcased a different energy post-halftime, outscoring the Wildcats 62-44. Chris Bell led Cal with 27 points, while Dai Dai Ames chipped in 25 points, along with seven assists and five steals. Their resurgence gradually chipped away at Kansas State's lead.

With roughly nine minutes remaining, Cal cut the deficit to 13 points, prompting Kansas State to respond with Johnson adding a quick five points. Cal, however, continued to battle, narrowing the gap to 10 points with just over three minutes left.

In a nail-biting finish, Cal made the game even closer after a deep three-pointer from Chris Bell, pulling the score to 98-92 with only 38 seconds on the clock. Haggerty made one of his two free throws, but Cal fought back, scoring two late dunks. Ultimately, Kansas State secured a hard-fought 99-96 victory, holding their ground against a fierce challenge from their rivals.

A decisive 13-0 run early helped Kansas State shift momentum, transforming an initial 9-5 deficit to an 18-9 lead. Following contributions from McGriff, Johnson, and Haggerty, they achieved their largest lead at 47-22. This early advantage ultimately played a critical role in weathering Cal's late game surge.

In a display of strong individual performances and pivotal moments, Kansas State pulled off a well-earned 99-96 victory. Their impressive first half allowed them to grasp this crucial nonconference win, even as Cal’s second-half rally nearly reversed the outcome.