K-State looked like an elite team Thursday night against Texas. So much so that it prompted Longhorn head coach Rick Barnes to mention it after the game.
"They are really good," Barnes said. "You can't beat a team that's not going to beat themselves."
IN a 66-49 victor, K-State was nothing exceptional but they were very good, advancing in the Big 12 Tournament. They will play the winner of the Oklahoma State/Baylor game.
Rodney McGruder led the way with 24 points, helping K-State reach the semifinal of the tournament for the first time in two year. McGruder continues to impress on every stage he is put on.
"He had a big run in the second half, he had five or seven of the 12 points - very good tonight," Bruce Weber said.
"My teammates just found me - it wasn't anything like a special play or anything," McGruder said. "They just found me, a lot of credit goes to my teammates."
K-State trailed only once at the Sprint Center, in a complete team effort in a place they've found success before.
"This is pretty much home court for us," Will Spradling said. "We got a great fanbase and so it feels like home - this place feels just like Bramlage Coliseum."
The surprise of the night came from DJ Johnson - they freshman came off the bench for eight points and seven rebounds but locked down the interior for the Wildcats and boosted them in the second half.
"I just came in and tried to rebpound and help out the team as best as I can," Johnson said. "I really thought we came together, shared the ball and started to pull away a bit."
The time has never been better for K-State to win a Big 12 Tournament title. Everything lines up for them to make it to the Title game but the players are remaining focused on Friday, whoever the opponent is.
"The guys are very focused on the next game, especially if it is Oklahoma State," Angel Rodgriuez said. "Even though we beat them at home, we should have taken care of business at their house and I'm sure (The Cowboys) are looking forward to play us.
They did mention Oklahoma State - a lot. So much for focusing on the game, instead of the opponent.
