By Paul Suellentrop
None of the math says Wichita State wins on Thursday against Western Kentucky at Koch Arena.
The Hilltoppers took 27 more shots than the Shockers and committed 12 fewer turnovers. They outrebounded WSU by two, grabbed 22 offensive rebounds and outscored the Shockers in the paint and on second-chance points.
Wichita State won 71-61 and happily chalked the success up to defense, grit, and good vibes.
"That was definitely a hard ride," coach Paul Mills said. "I thought guys were phenomenal in just maintaining belief. We were pretty positive with those guys at halftime.