By Jayson Henderson

Kansas State men’s basketball faced UCF in a Big 12 opener on January 6, 2024, securing a 77-52 victory. K-State held UCF to a season-low 52 points, limiting them to 21.6 percent shooting in the first half. The Wildcats led by as much as 35 points in the second half and extended their 16-point halftime lead with a 25-6 run. Tylor Perry led the scoring with 25 points, supported by Arthur Kaluma (14 points), Cam Carter (12 points), and Will McNair Jr. (11 points). K-State’s defense held UCF below its season average, allowing only 33.8 percent shooting. The 25-point victory was the largest in a Big 12 opener in over 25 seasons. Coach Jerome Tang acknowledged the team’s focus and credited the fans for their support. K-State has won three of its last four conference openers.