West Virginia and Kansas State open Big 12 play on Saturday evening as the Mountaineers and Wildcats look to start 1-0 in conference play.
Wesley Shoemaker:
I think both teams have a lot to prove coming into Big 12 play. The return of Emmitt Matthews should significantly help West Virginia especially on the offensive end. This team for the Mountaineers are hungry and they have a chance to start conference play with a win and show the rest of the Big 12 they are somewhat for real this year. Although one game won’t show that, they need to get the first win and I think they do. Kansas State will not have as crazy of a crowd due to the Sugar Bowl and I think the Mountaineers will prevail in a close one. Expect Tre Mitchell to have a big game on the offensive end and Kedrian Johnson’s defense to be a big factor.
West Virginia 77, Kansas State 68
Aaron Parker:
Heading into big 12 play with a 10-2 record, the Mountaineers will need to become road warriors early on to gain ground in the Big 12 standings. After the two game road trip to start conference play, Kansas and Baylor will be awaiting the Mountaineers at home, so WVU will need to pick up at least one game either in Manhattan or Stillwater. I do not think West Virginia will get the job done in the Little Apple, as Bramlage Colisieum has proven to be a tough place to play for the Mountaineers. While Emmitt Matthews returns to WVU on Saturday, I don’t think he’ll have his legs under him yet after missing two games. I think the guards will struggle to keep Keyontae Johnson and Markquis Nowell in check, and I think the Wildcats will win a close one in the Little Apple.
West Virginia 71, Kansas State 79
