Wildcats hold on late, down Utah State in NCAA opener
By Bud L. Ellis
The Kansas State Wildcats saw most of a big lead slip away as the clock drew down in their NCAA tournament opener on Thursday.
But the Wildcats didn’t panic, and now are one victory away from the Sweet 16. Jacob Pullen sparked the Wildcats
as Kansas State held on to end Utah State’s upset hopes 73-68 in the Southeast region in Denver.
Next up for the Wildcats: a shot at Wisconsin in the third round Saturday. The winner moves on to the Sweet 16.
Pullen scored 23 points for the Wildcats. Curtis Kelly scored 15 points, and Shane Southwell and Rodney McGruder each added 10 points.
Kansas State led 33-22 at halftime and held a double-digit advantage for most of the second half. The Aggies made a final push, drawing within five points in the final two minutes. The Wildcats improved to 23-10 on the season.
—30—
Friday, March 18, 2011 at 1:13 pm by bud
Tags: Curtis Kelly, Jacob Pullen, Kansas State Wildcats news, Kansas State Wildcats schedule, Kansas State Wildcats tickets, NCAA tournament, Rodney McGruder, Shane Southwell, Utah State, Wisconsin