Mandy
The Kansas State Wildcats (14-13, 7-7 Big 12) travel to Orlando to face the UCF Knights (10-15, 2-12 Big 12) on Wednesday at 7 p.m. EST. The matchup comes shortly after guard Taryn Sides delivered a 23-point performance in Kansas State’s narrow 76-72 loss to Iowa State.
This conference showdown marks the first meeting between the two programs in Big 12 play this season.
Game Preview: Kansas State vs UCF
Venue and Timing
- Location: Orlando, Florida
- Tip-Off: Wednesday, 7 p.m. EST
Kansas State aims to regain momentum on the road, while UCF looks to improve its standing in conference competition.
Team Performance Overview
UCF Knights Season Snapshot
- Overall Record: 10-15
- Big 12 Record: 2-12
- Home Record: 7-8
- Points Allowed Per Game: 66.3
- Scoring Margin: -2.6
The Knights have faced challenges in conference action this season. Despite allowing 66.3 points per contest, they have been outscored by an average of 2.6 points overall. Playing at home has provided some stability, with UCF winning seven of its 15 games in Orlando.
Kansas State Wildcats Season Snapshot
- Overall Record: 14-13
- Big 12 Record: 7-7
- Points Scored Per Game: 69.0
- Scoring Margin: +3.4
Kansas State has been competitive in Big 12 matchups, splitting its 14 conference games evenly. The Wildcats average 69.0 points per outing and maintain a positive scoring margin of 3.4 points.
Offensive and Defensive Comparison
- UCF Field Goal Percentage: 41.2%
- Kansas State Opponent FG Allowed: 40.4%
UCF shoots slightly better than what Kansas State typically allows defensively.
- Kansas State Field Goal Percentage: 42.9%
- UCF Opponent FG Allowed: 40.7%
The Wildcats shoot 2.2 percentage points higher than the average shooting percentage UCF gives up, suggesting a potential offensive edge for Kansas State.
Top Performers To Watch
UCF Knights Key Players
- Leah Harmon:
Averaging 15.7 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, Harmon leads the Knights offensively. - Mahogany Chandler-Roberts:
Posting 9.4 points and 5.3 rebounds over the last 10 games while shooting 43.8% from the field.
Kansas State Wildcats Standouts
- Taryn Sides:
Connecting on 41.9% from three-point range, Sides averages 2.4 made three-pointers, 13.1 points, 3.9 assists, and 1.9 steals per game. - Nastja Claessens:
Shooting an efficient 52.8% from the field, Claessens is averaging 12.0 points over the past 10 contests.
Recent Form: Last 10 Games Breakdown
UCF Knights (2-8 Last 10 Games)
- 57.5 points per game
- 30.1 rebounds
- 9.6 assists
- 6.3 steals
- 2.8 blocks
- 37.5% field goal shooting
- Opponents averaging 73.8 points
The Knights have struggled recently, particularly on the offensive end, scoring just 57.5 points per contest over their last 10 games.
Kansas State Wildcats (5-5 Last 10 Games)
- 67.0 points per game
- 28.8 rebounds
- 13.8 assists
- 10.2 steals
- 2.7 blocks
- 42.5% field goal shooting
- Opponents averaging 67.1 points
Kansas State has played balanced basketball lately, matching opponents closely in scoring while maintaining strong defensive pressure with over 10 steals per game.
What To Expect In This Big 12 Matchup
The Wildcats enter the contest with better conference standing and stronger offensive efficiency. However, UCF’s home court advantage could play a role in narrowing the gap. Kansas State’s ability to capitalize on its higher shooting percentage and perimeter scoring from Taryn Sides may prove decisive.
Both teams will aim to improve their Big 12 records as the season approaches its critical stretch.
Wednesday’s contest between Kansas State and UCF features two teams seeking stability in conference play. While Kansas State holds statistical advantages in scoring margin and shooting efficiency, UCF will attempt to leverage its home environment to secure an important Big 12 victory. The performance of key players like Taryn Sides and Leah Harmon could ultimately determine the outcome in what promises to be a competitive battle in Orlando.