MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — In a standout performance, JJ Quinerly scored 26 points, while Jordan Harrison contributed 18, leading the 17th-ranked West Virginia team to a 70-57 victory over the 12th-ranked Kansas State on Monday. This win marked West Virginia’s 15th consecutive triumph at home.

The game presented a clash between the Big 12’s most explosive offense, Kansas State, averaging 81.3 points per game, and the top defense, West Virginia, which allowed only 53.5 points per game. West Virginia asserted its defensive prowess, especially in the critical moments of the game. They held a 57-49 lead before limiting Kansas State to just one field goal out of 10 attempts over six crucial minutes, which allowed the Mountaineers to pull ahead decisively. During this stretch, the Mountaineers made seven consecutive shots, widening the gap to 70-51.

The Mountaineers’ defense was instrumental in the matchup, forcing Kansas State into a season-high total of 21 turnovers. The Wildcats struggled offensively, shooting only 39.3% from the floor, including a dismal 5 of 20 performance from beyond the arc. Kyah Watson put in a strong showing for West Virginia, achieving a career-best 15 rebounds along with four assists, four steals, and five points. Additionally, Jordan Thomas added to the team’s score with 11 points.

For Kansas State, Temira Poindexter was the top scorer with 17 points, while Zyanna Walker followed closely with 12 points. In the first half, Harrison accounted for 10 points, and both Quinerly and Thomas chipped in with nine points each, helping West Virginia to a narrow 36-30 lead at halftime. Watson’s solid performance featured not just scoring but also her contribution to rebounding with 11 boards.

Looking ahead, West Virginia is set to hit the road for a game against No. 10 TCU this coming Sunday. Meanwhile, Kansas State will return home to host the rival Kansas team on Saturday.