Coming off a two-game losing streak against Big 5 teams, Villanova will finally be leaving the mean streets of Philadelphia and attempting to forget the disappointment of the Big 5 Classic. The ‘Cats will look to bounce back on Tuesday, Dec. 5th, in a Big East-Big 12 clash on the road against Kansas State. The game is scheduled for a 7 p.m. start and will be televised on ESPN2.
Villanova comes into this matchup with a 6-3 record and received votes in the AP poll. Kansas State is an unranked opponent with a 6-2 record.
What to Expect
Kansas State is coming off an Elite Eight run in last year’s NCAA tournament and have looked competitive yet again. Its two losses this season came against two difficult opponents in USC and No. 15 Miami. The Wildcats also had a close call in their most recent game, beating North Alabama, 75-74, despite being heavy favorites.
Outside of these three games, Kansas State has played fairly well. It already has some experience with the Big East this season, as the ‘Cats took down Providence, 73-70. Now, they look to grab another victory against the Big East as they host Villanova.
Offense has been the key for Kansas State, as it averages 82.8 points. The offense is led by senior guard Tylor Perry, who transferred from North Texas. He averages 17.3 points, 5.3 assists and 4.0 rebounds for the Wildcats. However, his efficiency has been a concern, as Perry is only shooting 37.4% from the field and 34% from three.
Other key players include junior guard Cam Carter and junior forward Arthur Kaluma. Carter averages 16.5 points per game, making him a close second option for Kansas State. Kaluma is a familiar face to Villanova as he dominated as one of Creighton’s top options over the past two seasons. He has had a hot start since transferring to Kansas State, as he is averaging 15.1 points and 8.4 rebounds, leading the team in the latter category.
Expect to see Kansas State rely on Kaluma and his experience playing against Eric Dixon and the rest of the Wildcats. Kansas State will try to speed up the pace and pour in points, as Villanova is known for slowing down the game and its tough defense.
Kansas State will also look to make adjustments on the defensive end after allowing 74.3 points per game to opponents this season.
Ultimately, it’ll come down to Villanova’s offense if they want to win this game. The ‘Cats’ offensive efficiency needs to be better or they simply won’t take down a team like Kansas State. They haven’t had many issues slowing down any team and controlling the pace of play, but Kansas State will put up points regardless, making it even more crucial that Villanova fixes their offensive issues.
Series History
This is only the second game in history between the Wildcats of Villanova and Kansas State. The lone game took place back in 1940 and resulted in a Villanova win.
