The Big 12 Is Red! Texas Tech takes top spot in conference after win over Kansas State
MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) -- Keenan Evans scored 19 points and No. 7 Texas Tech beat Kansas State 66-47 on Saturday night to take sole possession of the Big 12 lead.
Texas Tech (21-4, 9-3) relied on strong second-half defense. After a 27-27 deadlock in the first half, the Red Raiders turned up the pressure.
In the second half, Kansas State (17-8, 6-6) had more turnovers (11) than made baskets (5) and ended up shooting just 29 percent on the night.
Dean Wade led the Wildcats with 13 points on 4-of-12 shooting.
BIG PICTURE
Kansas State: Kansas State's loss keeps the Wildcats on the NCAA Tournament Bubble for now.
Texas Tech: The Red Raiders have now won six in a row.
POLL IMPLICATIONS
Texas Tech has a good chance of moving into the top five after an upset-filled week.
THEY SAID IT
"When they get that eight-point lead, it's like playing a team that runs the Wishbone in football. They do a good job protecting their lead, they tough, they're physical. They're one of the best defensive teams in the nation." -- Bruce Weber on the Texas Tech defense.
STATS AND STREAKS
During the current six-game winning streak, Texas Tech has held opponents to 63.3 points per game.
UP NEXT
Texas Tech: Hosts Oklahoma on Tuesday night.
Kansas State: At Oklahoma State on Wednesday night.
