Kansas State vs Oklahoma State Picks and Prediction – 1/8/2025

The Kansas State Wildcats (7-6, 1-1) visit the Oklahoma State Cowboys (8-5, 0-2) in a Big 12 clash. Kansas State is coming off a heartbreaking 63-62 loss to TCU, while Oklahoma State looks to rebound from a 69-50 defeat to West Virginia. Both teams aim to improve conference records. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Kansas State enters the matchup averaging 76.2 points per game while allowing 70.1 points. The Wildcats shoot 45.5% from the field. David N'Guessan leads the team with 13.3 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, supported by Dug McDaniel's 4.3 assists per contest. Kansas State excels at ball distribution with 16.9 assists per game and has an aggressive defense that averages 7.8 steals. Despite a recent loss, the Wildcats remain a strong offensive unit.

Defensively, Kansas State relies on forcing turnovers and creating opportunities in transition. Coleman Hawkins leads the team with 2.3 steals and 1.4 blocks per game, giving Kansas State a defensive anchor. The Wildcats will need to improve perimeter defense to contain Oklahoma State's shooters, as recent struggles stemmed from allowing open looks beyond the arc. Kansas State’s ability to dominate the boards, grabbing 36 rebounds per game, will also be crucial in limiting second-chance opportunities.

Oklahoma State averages 74.2 points while conceding 73.1 points per game. The Cowboys shoot 42.3% from the field and rely heavily on forward Marchelus Avery, who averages 12.5 points per game. Abou Ousmane leads the team with 5.9 rebounds, while Khalil Brantley provides 2.8 assists per contest. Oklahoma State will look to exploit Kansas State’s perimeter defense, especially after recent struggles in scoring efficiency.

Defensively, the Cowboys will depend on forcing turnovers and contesting shots inside the paint. Oklahoma State averages 9.2 steals per game, led by Arturo Dean, who collects 1.9 steals per outing. However, rim protection remains a concern, with Abou Ousmane averaging just 0.9 blocks. Oklahoma State will need to limit second-chance opportunities and maintain defensive pressure to keep Kansas State’s offense in check.

Kansas State has the edge with a superior offense and defensive intensity. David N'Guessan's scoring and rebounding ability, combined with Coleman Hawkins’ defensive presence, should create matchup problems for Oklahoma State. Expect Kansas State to bounce back and grind out a win in a competitive battle. Final Score Prediction: Kansas State Wildcats win 72-68.