West Virginia opens their Big 12 schedule with a road trip to Kansas State. The Mountaineers look to end the calendar year with a victory, while also starting the Big 12 calendar with one. West Virginia is 10-2 on the season, while Kansas State is 11-1.
Emmitt Matthews being a factor
West Virginia has been without fifth-year forward, but according to head coach Bob Huggins Matthews will suit up against Kansas State. Matthews is the most experienced guy in Big 12 play on West Virginia’s roster and at times you saw things get stuck offensively in West Virginia’s two games without him. Matthews return and him being able to give you significant minutes while possibly still dealing with the bone bruise will be something to keep an eye on for West Virginia.
Three-Point Baskets
So far this season, Kansas State has not allowed any opponent to make more than nine three-pointers in a game. Their only loss of the season came when Butler went 8 for 20 from three-point range, while in an overtime win over Nevada, the Wolf Pack went 9 for 22 from three. The rest of Kansas State’s victories have had teams make no more than three-pointers in a game. If West Virginia who is the second-best perimeter shooting team in the Big 12 can make at least 10 three-pointers, they should win.
Keep Keyontae at bay
Transfer Keyontae Johnson has been as-advertised for the Wildcats. Johnson who collapsed multiple seasons ago while playing at Florida was once named the SEC Preseason Player of the Year. Johnson transferred to Kansas State and picked up right where he left off at Florida. Through 12 games Johnson is averaging 17.7 points per game. Johnson will have to be a focal point of West Virginia’s defensive efforts if the Mountaineers want to move to 1-0 in Big 12 play.
