MANHATTAN, Kan. — Achor Achor’s impressive performance, scoring 21 points, helped propel Kansas State University to a dominant 120-73 win against Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Sunday. This victory established a new scoring record for the school, driven by a late surge of three-point shots.
The Wildcats showcased their shooting prowess, finishing the game with a remarkable 21 three-pointers, which stands as the second-highest total in the program’s history. Throughout the game, the team was highly efficient, attempting 40 three-point shots in total. A pivotal moment came when Taj Manning hit a three-pointer, bringing K-State’s score to 117 points with just two minutes remaining, surpassing the previous school record of 116 points set during a game against Texas last season. A final three-pointer by Dug McDaniel sealed the game’s score.
In addition to Achor’s standout performance, six players from Kansas State ended the game in double figures. The team registered an impressive 68 points from bench players, showing their depth and versatility. Alongside Achor, McDaniel contributed significantly with 18 points and 10 assists, while David Castillo added 17 points after making five three-pointers. Among the starting lineup, David N’Guessan scored 17 points, Brendan Hausen contributed 14, and Max Jones added 12.
For the Lions of Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Chop Paljor led the team with 15 points, while Dante Sawyer and Kyle Brown scored 12 and 10 points, respectively.
Kansas State’s sharpshooting was evident as they registered an impressive 62% shooting percentage overall, and an outstanding 53% from beyond the arc. Despite scoring only 36 points in the paint, the Wildcats excelled with their effective two-point shooting, making 19 of 25 attempts.
The Wildcats capitalized on six turnovers from UAPB, translating them into 16 points. They launched into a vigorous start, leading 30-11 with just over 12 minutes remaining in the first half. During this stretch, Hausen netted nine points, while N’Guessan scored seven.
K-State’s first half was characterized by an explosive offensive display, netting 54 points within the first 15 minutes. They maintained a shooting percentage of 57% and connected on 9 of 16 three-point attempts during this period. The Wildcats went into halftime with a significant lead of 63-33, propelled by Castillo’s 11 points and Achor’s 10.
Overall, this commanding victory not only showcased the team’s talent but also set a new standard in scoring for Kansas State basketball, marking an exhilarating moment in their season.
