The No. 12 Kansas State Wildcats displayed resilience and skill, turning a closely contested game into a commanding victory over the Houston Cougars.
With a stunning 21-point run in the fourth quarter, the Wildcats sealed a 74-55 win on Wednesday, extending their winning streak to nine games.
Fourth-Quarter Comeback: A Game-Changer
The pivotal moment came in the final quarter when Temira Poindexter spearheaded the Wildcats’ offensive surge.
Scoring eight of her 15 points during this critical period, Poindexter led Kansas State to outscore Houston 23-4 in the fourth quarter.
The Wildcats dominated both ends of the court, leaving Houston scoreless for seven minutes and holding them to 1-of-16 shooting in the final stretch.
Key highlights from the fourth-quarter performance:
- Ayoka Lee and Jaelyn Glenn contributed significantly, scoring 15 points each.
- Kansas State outrebounded Houston 17-5 in the fourth quarter.
- The Wildcats’ defense forced Houston into 13 missed shots before they could score again.
Teamwork Shines for Kansas State
Kansas State’s victory was a testament to their balanced offensive and defensive efforts:
- Serena Sundell had a near triple-double with 11 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists.
- The Wildcats shot an impressive 13 of 18 combined between Ayoka Lee and Jaelyn Glenn.
- Kansas State’s collective effort led to a 14-1 overall record and a 2-0 start in the Big 12 Conference.
Houston’s Struggles
Despite a strong showing in the third quarter, Houston faltered in the fourth:
- Summer Bostock and Laila Blair were the bright spots, scoring 16 and 12 points, respectively.
- The Cougars tied the game at 51 at the end of the third quarter, but they couldn’t maintain momentum.
- A 12-2 run in the third quarter gave Houston hope, but their offensive drought in the fourth sealed their fate.
Game Stats: Kansas State vs. Houston
| Stat | Kansas State | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 74 | 55 |
| Fourth-Quarter Points | 23 | 4 |
| Top Scorer | Temira Poindexter (15 points) | Summer Bostock (16 points) |
| Rebounds | 11 (Sundell) | 5 (team total in the fourth) |
| Field Goal Percentage | 54% | 33% |
What’s Next?
Kansas State’s dominant performance sets the stage for their upcoming home game against Texas Tech on Saturday. Meanwhile, Houston will look to regroup as they host Arizona State.
Key Takeaways
Kansas State demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure, using teamwork and a strong defense to secure a decisive win. For Houston, the game highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in maintaining consistency across all quarters.
The No. 12 Kansas State Wildcats proved why they’re a force to be reckoned with in women’s basketball. Their ability to turn a tied game into a decisive victory underscores their strength and teamwork.
With this win, Kansas State cements its place as a top contender in the Big 12, while Houston must address their fourth-quarter struggles to bounce back in upcoming games.
FAQs
What was the highlight of Kansas State’s victory?
The Wildcats’ 21-point run in the fourth quarter was the highlight, showcasing their defensive prowess and offensive efficiency.
Who were the standout players in the game?
Temira Poindexter, Ayoka Lee, Jaelyn Glenn, and Serena Sundell shone for Kansas , while Summer Bostock and Laila Blair were notable for Houston.
What challenges did Houston face in the fourth quarter?
Houston struggled with shooting accuracy, going 1-of-16 from the field, and couldn’t overcome Kansas dominant defense and rebounding.
