Preview: Kansas State Wildcats at Arizona Wildcats

TUCSON, Ariz. (Interstat) — Two Wildcats squads seeking momentum will meet Wednesday when Kansas State visits Arizona in a Big 12 women’s basketball matchup at McKale Center.

Both teams enter with nearly identical records. Kansas State (12-11) snapped a two-game skid with a 74-67 road win at Arizona State on Sunday. Arizona (10-11) looks to halt a five-game losing streak after falling 88-69 to Oklahoma State, also on Sunday.

The game features a compelling duel between standout guards. Kansas State’s Nastja Claessens is coming off a dominant performance, logging 38 minutes with 18 points, 12 rebounds and four assists in the win over Arizona State. Over her last eight games, the junior has averaged 12.3 points and 5.1 rebounds.

She will be matched by Arizona’s high-volume scorer, Sumayah Sugapong. The senior guard has shouldered a heavy load during the team’s slump, averaging 16.1 points over her last seven contests. She scored 25 points in 40 minutes in the loss to Oklahoma State.

Kansas State has shown resilience on the road recently, winning two of its last three away games. Arizona, however, has struggled at home in conference play, losing three of its last four at McKale Center.

The game is pivotal for both teams’ aspirations in the crowded middle of the Big 12 standings. Kansas State aims to build on its recent road success and climb above .500. Arizona desperately needs a win to reverse its current slide and gain confidence before embarking on a two-game road trip.

Tipoff is set for Wednesday night. Kansas State returns home to face BYU on Saturday. Arizona travels to face West Virginia on Saturday.