No. 7-seed Wichita State overcame a double-digit deficit, eventually pulling away in the second half from their in-state brethren and second-seeded Kansas Jayhawks during their first meeting in 22 years, reaching their second Sweet 16 in three seasons as a result.
Wichita State gained control of the game with a 25-8 run that spanned the end of the first half and into the beginning of the second.
Shockers guard Fred VanVleet was a difference-maker on both ends of the floor, scoring 17 points, while adding six rebounds, six assists and four steals. All five Wichita State starters finished in double figures, including defensive specialist Tekele Cotton, who finished with a game-high 19 points.
https://vine.co/v/OYFw1OtjxBL
Perry Ellis and Devonte Graham led the Jayhawks with 17 points apiece. Point guard Frank Mason III added 16.
The loss was Kansas’ second Round of 32 loss in a row.
“We didn’t play very smart,” Kansas coach Bill Self said. “We took bad shots, and rushed shots, and you know, basically gave them confidence.”
Wichita State made 10-of-20 three-point attempts, while the Jayhawks were just 6-of-21.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzP_q8YQ5KI
Wichita State moves on to face third-seeded Notre Dame on Thursday.
