MANHATTAN, Kan. — In a notable performance, Serena Sundell reached a personal milestone, scoring 16 points to exceed 1,500 career points, while also providing eight assists. This effort helped the No. 11 Kansas State Wildcats secure a 62-47 victory over the Arizona Wildcats on Thursday evening in their first-ever matchup.
Temira Poindexter contributed significantly for Kansas State (18-1, 6-0 in Big 12 Conference) with 14 points, particularly impacting the game during a crucial 10-0 scoring run at the start of the fourth quarter, which allowed Kansas State to extend their lead to 57-41.
The scoring surge featured several free throws and just one field goal from All-American Ayoka Lee, who set a school record by starting her 131st game. Although her contribution of six points fell short of her average, she excelled defensively, matching her career high with eight blocked shots.
Arizona (11-8, 2-4) was led by Isis Beh, who matched Sundell’s output with 16 points, while Jada Williams added 11 points. Breya Cunningham recorded a solid performance with 10 rebounds alongside eight points.
After trailing by 11 points at halftime, Arizona made a strong comeback with a 9-0 run, largely fueled by Beh’s five points, narrowing the deficit to 46-40 during the third quarter. However, Sundell responded by sinking a couple of free throws that pushed Kansas State ahead 47-41 entering the final quarter.
Arizona struggled to find their rhythm, missing their last two shots of the third quarter and failing to score in their initial five attempts of the fourth, which allowed Kansas State to build a comfortable lead.
The game commenced with Poindexter scoring a 3-pointer, setting the tone for Kansas State, who never fell behind. The Wildcats scored the first eight points of the game, maintaining a narrow 14-10 lead by the end of the first quarter and expanding it to 36-25 by halftime.
Arizona concluded the game shooting at just 32%, managing only one 3-point shot, while Kansas State controlled the perimeter with eight successful 3-pointers, finishing with an overall shooting percentage of 45%.
Looking ahead, Arizona State is set to visit Kansas State on Sunday, while Arizona will be up against Kansas.
