K-State takes first win under Alexander behind Rechsteiner

K-State guard Jaden Schutt moves the ball down the court while defended by CSUN’s Keziah Ekissi during the Wildcats’ Nov. 6 matchup. Schutt finished with 9 points, five rebounds and four assists as K-State defeated the Matadors 95-78. (Zoe Taylor)

K-State men's basketball picked up its first win under head coach Casey Alexander on Friday night, defeating CSUN 95-78 at Bramlage Coliseum. The Wildcats bounced back from a season-opening loss to South Dakota State, using a strong offensive performance to earn their first victory of the season.

Senior captain Brandon Rechsteiner led the Wildcats with 26 points, knocking down six 3-pointers to help K-State pull away from the Matadors. Rechsteiner also finished with five assists and three rebounds, leading the offense throughout the night.

The Wildcats found their rhythm from beyond the arc, making 17 of 41 three-point attempts, shooting 49.2% from the field and finishing with 22 assists.

Montana Wheeler and Matt Gilhool each added 12 points to help K-State spread out its scoring. Wheeler finished with four field goals and three assists, while Gilhool shot 3-for-4 from the field and made both of his 3-point attempts. Jaylen Alexander and Brock Vice also contributed 8 points apiece.

First Half

K-State used its outside shooting to create separation early and build a comfortable lead over the Matadors. The Wildcats knocked down shots from multiple players and took advantage of their opportunities from 3-point range.

Rechsteiner helped set the pace offensively as K-State continued to find open looks. The Wildcats eventually stretched their advantage to 31 points, taking a 62-31 lead and putting pressure on CSUN to respond.

Second Half

CSUN made a push after halftime, scoring 49 points in the second half as the Matadors tried to work their way back into the game. However, K-State continued to answer offensively and held onto its lead to secure the 17-point victory.

Mikah Ballew led CSUN with 23 points, including six 3-pointers. Josiah Davis added 12 points and five assists, while BJ Omot finished with 14 points. The Matadors had several players contribute offensively, but their shooting from beyond the arc was not enough to match K-State.

CSUN outrebounded K-State 43-37 and grabbed 16 offensive rebounds. However, the Matadors struggled from 3-point range, making seven of 26 attempts. K-State's 17 made 3-pointers proved to be a major difference in the game.

The win gave Alexander his first victory as the Wildcats' head coach. K-State moves to 1-1 on the season and looks to build on Friday night's performance. The Wildcats return to Bramlage Coliseum at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 10, to host Creighton.