Kansas State Beats Cal in Close 99-96 High-Scoring Battle

Kansas State began the game with high energy and strong scoring. Their early performance set the tone for the match, especially during the first half when they shot extremely well. The team quickly built momentum and showed confidence on both ends of the court. Their accuracy from the floor and sharp ball movement helped them take control of the game early.

P.J. Haggerty was one of the biggest reasons Kansas State maintained a strong lead throughout most of the game. He scored 23 important points, making key shots at crucial moments. His consistent scoring kept Kansas State ahead even when Cal attempted to reduce the deficit. Haggerty’s calm presence and steady shooting played a major role in securing the win.

Khamari McGriff also delivered an impressive performance with 21 points. His strength around the basket and ability to finish tough plays gave Kansas State a boost whenever Cal began to gain momentum.
Nate Johnson added another 20 points and was very effective during scoring runs. Johnson contributed heavily during a 9-0 run early in the second half, which pushed Kansas State’s lead to 24 points. His timely baskets helped keep Kansas State comfortable in front for most of the game.

David Castillo came off the bench and made a major impact, scoring 16 points while shooting very well from the three-point line. He made 4 of his 6 three-point attempts in this game, continuing his excellent long-range shooting form from previous matches. Over his last two games, Castillo has made 9 of 11 three-pointers, showing how important he has become as a reliable shooter for Kansas State.

Although Kansas State dominated the first half, Cal was a completely different team in the second half. Cal outscored Kansas State 62-44 after halftime and made the game much closer than expected. Chris Bell scored 27 points, while Dai Dai Ames added 25 points along with seven assists and five steals. Their effort and energy helped Cal slowly cut into Kansas State’s lead.

With about nine minutes left, Cal reduced the difference to just 13 points. Kansas State tried to respond, and Johnson added five points to push the lead back up. However, Cal continued to fight and brought the gap down to only 10 points with just three and a half minutes remaining. Kansas State attempted to secure the lead with strong plays, but Cal did not stop their push.

In the last minute, Cal came even closer. A deep three-pointer from Chris Bell brought the score to 98-92 with only 38 seconds left. Haggerty hit one of two free throws, but Cal managed to score two late dunks. Despite Cal’s strong final surge, Kansas State held on and secured the tight 99-96 win.

Kansas State had built a huge lead in the first half after a 13-0 run that changed the game. They went from trailing 9-5 to leading 18-9. Later, with strong plays from McGriff, Johnson, and Haggerty, they reached their biggest lead of 47-22. This early advantage became the key reason they were able to survive Cal’s late comeback.

Kansas State earned a hard-fought 99-96 victory in a game filled with strong individual performances and dramatic moments. Their powerful first half helped them stay ahead, while Cal’s second-half rhythm nearly changed the outcome. In the end, Kansas State’s balanced scoring and early dominance helped secure an important nonconference win.