Manhattan, Kan. – In a stunning upset, Kansas State emerged victorious over No. 4 Kansas with a final score of 75-70 in an exhilarating overtime clash on Monday night. Guard Tylor Perry showcased his prowess, contributing eight of his game-high 26 points during the additional period, securing a critical win for the Wildcats.
Perry’s impactful performance included a pivotal layup with 2:41 remaining in overtime, giving Kansas State the lead. Shortly thereafter, he extended their advantage to 70-66 with a crucial 3-pointer at the 1:54 mark. Despite a resilient effort from Kansas, highlighted by Hunter Dickinson’s jumper narrowing the deficit to 70-68, Perry’s two free throws maintained a four-point lead. Dajuan Harris Jr. cut it to 72-70 with a pair of successful free throws at the 51-second mark.
In the waning moments of the game, Kansas had an opportunity to level the score, but Kevin McCullar missed the front end of a one-and-one with 21 seconds left. Capitalizing on the opportunity, Kansas State’s Arthur Kaluma sank two free throws, and Perry’s additional free throw sealed the triumph in the 300th meeting between the historic rivals. Kansas maintains a 204-96 edge in the sixth-most-played rivalry in Division I men’s basketball history.
Kansas State (15-8, 5-5 Big 12) snapped a four-game losing streak with Perry’s standout performance, complemented by 19 points from Cam Carter and 13 from Arthur Kaluma. On the other side, Kansas (18-5, 6-4) was led by Hunter Dickinson’s 21 points, with Kevin McCullar and Dajuan Harris Jr. contributing 15 points each, while KJ Adams Jr. scored 13.
The game’s intensity remained palpable, with Kansas expanding a two-point halftime lead to 41-30 at the start of the second half. However, Kansas State responded with an 11-point surge, leveling the score five minutes into the half. The contest remained closely contested, with Perry’s late-game heroics and a resilient Kansas squad forcing the game into overtime.
Kansas State, fueled by a spirited effort and effective long-range shooting, claimed a 32-30 halftime lead against the taller Jayhawks. The Wildcats displayed heightened energy, evident in their 17-16 rebound advantage at halftime. The thrilling victory marked a significant turnaround for Kansas State, breaking their four-game losing streak and leaving an indelible mark on the storied rivalry.
