The Wichita State women’s basketball team opened their campaign on a difficult note Monday evening, falling 61-41 to Kansas State at Bramlage Coliseum.
The first quarter set the tone for the evening, as both teams prioritized defensive intensity. While Wichita State limited Kansas State to just 3-of-13 shooting from the field, they struggled to find their own rhythm, connecting on only two shots in the opening frame. Despite the defensive stalemate, Kansas State managed to pull ahead by eight points, largely by capitalizing on free-throw opportunities, where they converted 7-of-12.
The Shockers attempted to claw back into contention during the second quarter. Sparked by senior Lily Ba, who tallied all eight of her points during the period, the team mounted a 7-0 run. However, momentum shifted back to the Wildcats in the final moments of the half. A pair of turnovers late in the frame allowed Kansas State to orchestrate their own 7-0 run, extending their lead to seven points heading into the locker room.
Shockers Struggle with Poor Shooting During Second Half
The second half highlighted the persistent scoring droughts that plagued the Shockers throughout the contest. Although junior Ma’Riya Vincent delivered a standout individual performance, accounting for nine of the team’s 12 points in the third quarter, the collective offensive output remained insufficient. The team finished the game shooting 26.8 percent from the field and 46.7 percent from the free-throw line.
HALFTIME FROM BRAMLAGE:K-State leads the Wichita State Shockers by nine at the half after a 7-0 run to end the second quarter!!How do you feel about the Cats' performance so far? pic.twitter.com/51gXFqx7Xe
The Wildcats eventually pulled away in the fourth quarter, utilizing an 11-1 run to build a lead that reached 21 points. For the Shockers, the game served as a baptism by fire for freshman Mari Milton, who contributed seven points and nine rebounds in her collegiate debut.
The immediate focus for the team now shifts to their next outing. The Shockers are set to return to the court on Friday, Nov. 6, at 5:30 p.m., where they will face Kansas City at the Municipal Auditorium. With little time to dwell on the season opener, the coaching staff will look to address the shooting efficiency and ball security issues that defined Monday’s loss as they prepare for the upcoming road game.
