The Washington State Cougars opened the game in a 2-3 zone and have been completely dominated on the glass as a result. The Wildcats pulled down 15 rebounds in the first 12 minutes, nine of which came on the offensive end. It’s those second chance points, and the 15-7 rebound difference, that propelled a Kansas State run, allowing them to pick up some breathing room in Pullman.
The Wildcats are led by Rodney McGruder’s four rebounds, two of which came on the offensive end. The Wildcat front court has been active, allowing guards to come loose and grab the board.
The Cougs have switched to man defense, perhaps realizing just how terrible they’ve been on the boards. Kansas State is also helping, turning the ball over at a 40 percent rate. The Cougars, however, haven’t been much better, turning it over at a 30 percent clip. It’s been a sloppy game thus far, but Washington State is hanging with Kansas State with just under four minutes to go in the half, 26-20.