Kansas State actually took an early lead on an easy layup for Makol Mawien from Barry Brown, but that would be the last thing to go right for quite some time. Kansas responded with an 12-0 run thanks to three threes and would eventually lead 31-16.
It’s hard to fault the Wildcats’ energy, which helped force 12 (!) first-half turnovers. But perhaps it was a bit too much, as somewhat impatient shots simply weren’t falling and a few passes combined with far too easy dribble penetration opened up KU shooters, leading to them making five of their first six from long distance.