Xavier Sneed has always been part of the plan at Kansas State. As a high-profile prospect, Sneed was a key contributor off the bench as a freshman, and he has started every game this season as a sophomore.
But Sneed’s importance has been elevated throughout this NCAA Tournament in the absence of Dean Wade.
With Wade, the Wildcats scoring leader, recovering from a foot injury, points have been redistributed, and in the biggest moment of Kansas State’s season, Sneed delivered his share.
His 22 points, one off a career best, made Sneed the offensive catalyst in the Wildcats’ Sweet 16 triumph over Kentucky.