As could be expected when Bob Huggins and Frank martin square off, defense has ruled the day so far. Neither the Wildcats nor Mountaineers have shot particularly well, shooting 40 and 33 percent, respectively.
The Mountaineers are paced offensively by Kevin Jones and Truck Bryant. Jones has been his usual opportunistic self gobbling up 13 points and 5 boards in the first half. Bryant has also found his offensive streak going for 11 points.
The Mountaineer freshmen guards have struggled against the Kansas State pressure. Jabarie Hinds and Gary Browne have each turned the ball over three times apiece.
The Wildcats have been paced by leading scorers Will Spradling and Rodney McGruder who each have eight points in the half.
In general, the Mountaineers have hung tight by playing tough defense and contesting every rebound. Walk on Paul Williamson saw some minutes early off the bench for the Mountaineeers. Aaron Brown contributed a big three in his brief appearance in the ballgame. If the Mountaineers can continue to handle KSU's pressure defense and haul in their share of rebounds, they can win this game.
The Mountaineers trail 31-30 at halftime.