SALT LAKE CITY — John Collins tries to avoid the NBA news at this time of year.
At this point, how could he not? It’s become an annual tradition to see his name floating around the trade market; a rite of passage that the NBA season is entering the second half of the season.
So while he’s heard whispers and rumors over the last few weeks, he hadn’t yet heard the latest report: He was apparently pretty close to being a Sacramento King.
According to Kings beat reporter James Han, things were so close that the Kings had actually told players they were on the move but didn’t ultimately pull the trigger.
“I definitely didn’t hear that,” Collins said. “Whatever Sacramento is doing there, that’s their prerogative, if it involves me or not. Obviously, I would have found out, but I’m kind of happy I just didn’t have that news. Nothing against Sacramento, just kind of happy I didn’t have that news in my phone. So, you know, just got to continue to be the best professional I can be and continue playing basketball.”
Collins is having a standout year in his second season with the Jazz, averaging 18.1 points, 8.4 rebounds and shooting 44.6% from 3-point range. He’s also passing at a much higher rate and has been used as a creator against mismatches to pretty good success.
Those are all things that should pique the interest of teams with the trade deadline looming next Thursday. The Kings and Warriors have both been heavily mentioned in talks — and a team like the Lakers, Nuggets or Spurs could make some sense, too.
So what does he think of moving to a team further up the standings?
On one hand, such a move would offer a better chance to compete in the playoffs. On the other, it’s still an unknown situation. And that comfort is important to Collins — as evidenced by his play this season after an inconsistent first year with the Jazz.
“This is not an easy thing mentally to think about whether it might be a better situation or worse situation, or whatever situation is out there — it’s not my current one,” he said. “So it’s hard for me to think about that and focus. So I just try not to think about it. Just try to be the best pro I can. Because I really have no control over when or where that is to. Whenever that would happen, I have to restart again.”
Though, there are times he lets the NBA fan in him come out — feeling the excitement of the trade season.
“In a weird way, sometimes it’s fun,” he said. “Sometimes I feel like a kid.”
But reality usually sets in shortly after.
“It just puts you in a little bit of a purgatory — you’re just in a little bit of a mundane (state) and don’t know how to feel,” he said.
But that’s been his basketball life over the last few years.
“It’s been a part of my career and something I’ve had to deal with,” Collins said. “So it just is what it is. And again, I will continue to be the best pro I can be while I’m here. whatever happens to happen. Again, I have no control.”
As the NBA trade deadline approaches, Philadelphia 76ers forward John Collins finds himself in a state of uncertainty. Rumors have been swirling about potential trades involving Collins, leaving him in what he describes as a state of ‘purgatory’.
In a recent interview, Collins expressed his frustration with the ongoing trade speculation, stating that it has been a distraction for him and his teammates. He emphasized his desire to stay with the 76ers and continue to contribute to the team’s success.
Collins acknowledged that trade rumors are a part of the business of professional sports, but he admitted that it has been difficult to focus on his game with all the uncertainty surrounding his future. Despite the challenges, Collins remains committed to giving his best effort on the court and helping the 76ers compete at the highest level.
As the trade deadline looms, Collins is hopeful that a resolution will come soon, whether it involves him staying with the 76ers or moving on to a new team. In the meantime, he is doing his best to stay focused and prepare for whatever comes next in his NBA career.
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Dug McDaniel scored 20 points to lead five Kansas State players in double figures as the Wildcats upset No. 3 Iowa State 80-61 on Saturday.With this win, the Wildcats (10-11, 4-6 Big 12) ended a 15-game road losing streak — 12 of which occurred within the Big 12. Kansas State has now won its last three overall games, also beating then-No. 23 West Virginia and Oklahoma State.Coleman Hawkins added 17 points and Brendan Hausen had 15 for the Wildcats.The Cyclones (17-4, 7-3) saw their 29-game home winning streak end.Tamin Lipsey tied a season-high with 20 points for the Cyclones with Curtis Jones adding 14 and Joshua Jefferson with 13.TakeawaysKansas State: The Wildcats took down their first top-five team on the road since 2017 when Kansas State beat then-No. 2 Baylor 56-54 at the Ferrell Center on Feb. 2.Iowa State: The Cyclones tied a season-high with 18 turnovers, as they’ve gone back-to-back games with this amount of turnovers. Both games were losses.Key momentThe Cyclones tried to claw their way back into the game with a 13-0 run late in the second half, but a 3-pointer from Hausen extinguished any hope left for Iowa State.Key statThe Wildcats tied a season-high of 22 fouls committed but still found a way to upset a top-three team on the road.Up nextIowa State hosts TCU next Saturday. Kansas State visits Arizona State Tuesday night.
Dug McDaniel scored 20 points to lead five Kansas State players in double figures as the Wildcats upset No. 3 Iowa State 80-61 on Saturday.
With this win, the Wildcats (10-11, 4-6 Big 12) ended a 15-game road losing streak — 12 of which occurred within the Big 12. Kansas State has now won its last three overall games, also beating then-No. 23 West Virginia and Oklahoma State.
Coleman Hawkins added 17 points and Brendan Hausen had 15 for the Wildcats.
The Cyclones (17-4, 7-3) saw their 29-game home winning streak end.
Tamin Lipsey tied a season-high with 20 points for the Cyclones with Curtis Jones adding 14 and Joshua Jefferson with 13.
Kansas State: The Wildcats took down their first top-five team on the road since 2017 when Kansas State beat then-No. 2 Baylor 56-54 at the Ferrell Center on Feb. 2.
Iowa State: The Cyclones tied a season-high with 18 turnovers, as they’ve gone back-to-back games with this amount of turnovers. Both games were losses.
The Cyclones tried to claw their way back into the game with a 13-0 run late in the second half, but a 3-pointer from Hausen extinguished any hope left for Iowa State.
The Wildcats tied a season-high of 22 fouls committed but still found a way to upset a top-three team on the road.
Iowa State hosts TCU next Saturday. Kansas State visits Arizona State Tuesday night.
In a stunning upset, Kansas State defeats No. 3 Cyclones
In a thrilling game that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Kansas State pulled off a major upset by defeating the No. 3 ranked Cyclones. The Wildcats came into the game as heavy underdogs, but they played with heart and determination to secure the victory.
The game was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading blows throughout the contest. But in the end, it was Kansas State who made the big plays when it mattered most. Their defense stepped up and shut down the high-powered Cyclones offense, while their offense made key plays to put points on the board.
The upset victory is sure to shake up the college football landscape and will be talked about for weeks to come. Kansas State proved that they are a team to be reckoned with and that they are capable of competing with the best in the nation.
Congratulations to the Wildcats on their impressive win!
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AMES, Iowa — Dug McDaniel scored 20 points as Kansas State upset No. 3 Iowa State 80-61 on Saturday, ending the Cyclones’ 29-game home winning streak.
The Wildcats (10-11, 4-6 Big 12) ended a 15-game road losing streak — 12 of which occurred within the Big 12. Kansas State’s 19-point road win is tied for the largest by an unranked team against a top 3 opponent in AP Poll history, according to ESPN Research.
The win is also Kansas State’s largest against an AP top 5 team since 1951 and the Wildcats’ largest road win against an AP top 5 team in poll history.
Kansas State has won its past three games, also beating then-No. 23 West Virginia and Oklahoma State.
Coleman Hawkins added 17 points and Brendan Hausen had 15 for the Wildcats.
The Cyclones’ 29-game home winning streak was the second longest in the nation, behind Houston’s 33.
Tamin Lipsey tied a season high with 20 points for the Cyclones (17-4, 7-3). Curtis Jones added 14 and Joshua Jefferson chipped in 13.
Kansas State: The Wildcats took down their first top 5 team on the road since 2017 when Kansas State beat then-No. 2 Baylor 56-54 at the Ferrell Center on Feb. 2.
Iowa State: The Cyclones tied a season high with 18 turnovers, the second straight game they’ve finished with that many turnovers. They lost both games.
Iowa State hosts TCU next Saturday. Kansas State visits Arizona State Tuesday night.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
In a stunning upset, Kansas State snaps No. 3 Iowa State’s 29-game home win streak
The Kansas State Wildcats pulled off a remarkable victory on Saturday, ending No. 3 Iowa State’s impressive 29-game home win streak. The Wildcats came into Hilton Coliseum as heavy underdogs but managed to outplay the Cyclones in a thrilling game that went down to the wire.
Kansas State’s defense was relentless, holding Iowa State’s high-powered offense in check and forcing key turnovers throughout the game. The Wildcats’ offense also came up big, with clutch plays and timely scoring to keep them in the lead.
Despite the hostile environment, Kansas State maintained their composure and executed their game plan to perfection. The win not only ends Iowa State’s impressive home win streak but also marks a significant victory for the Wildcats in conference play.
The Wildcats’ victory serves as a reminder that anything can happen in college basketball, and no team is invincible. Congratulations to Kansas State on their impressive win, and commiserations to Iowa State on the end of their impressive home win streak.
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The No. 7 Michigan State Spartans look to extend their 13-game winning streak when they travel to the West Coast to take on the USC Trojans.
The Spartans and Trojans will take the court against each other for the eighth time in the program’s history. It also will mark the first conference matchup between the teams since USC joined the Big Ten last August.
Michigan State coach Tom Izzo has a chance to write his name in the history books and give himself a belated birthday present. Izzo, who turned 70 Thursday in his 30th season, has a chance to tie former Indiana coach Bobby Knight’s record of 353 Big Ten victories. A win on Tuesday at UCLA would break the record for Izzo.
Watch MSU-USC on PeacockHere’s what to know for Michigan State’s matchup against USC only on Peacock:
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More:Magic Johnson on Michigan State basketball: ‘It’s just beautiful to watch’
More:Michigan State basketball is connected better than it has been in years; proof is on court
Below is the second portion of Michigan State basketball’s schedule. Find the Spartans’ full 2024-25 schedule here.
| Date | Opponent |
| Friday, Jan. 3 | at Ohio State (W, 69-62) |
| Thursday, Jan. 9 | vs. Washington (W, 88-54) |
| Sunday, Jan. 12 | at Northwestern (W, 78-68) |
| Wednesday, Jan. 15 | vs. Penn State (W, 90-85) |
| Sunday, Jan. 19 | vs. Illinois (W, 80-78) |
| Saturday, Jan. 25 | at Rutgers (W, 81-74) |
| Tuesday, Jan. 28 | vs. Minnesota (W, 73-51) |
| Saturday, Feb. 1 | at USC, 4:30 p.m., Peacock |
| Tuesday, Feb. 4 | at UCLA, 10 p.m., Peacock |
| Saturday, Feb. 8 | vs. Oregon, noon, Fox |
| Tuesday, Feb. 11 | vs. Indiana, 9 p.m., Peacock |
| Saturday, Feb. 15 | at Illinois, 8 p.m., Fox |
| Tuesday, Feb. 18 | vs. Purdue, 7 p.m., Peacock |
| Friday, Feb. 21 | at Michigan, 8 p.m., Fox |
| Wednesday, Feb. 26 | at Maryland, 6:30 p.m., Big Ten Network |
| Sunday, March 2 | vs. Wisconsin, 1:30 p.m., CBS |
| Thursday, March 6 | at Iowa, 8 p.m., FS1 |
| Sunday, March 9 | vs. Michigan, noon, CBS |
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East Lansing — In 30 years of coaching at Michigan State, Tom Izzo can count on one hand how many times he’s taken his Spartans out to Los Angeles for a regular-season game.
In fact, he can count it out on one finger.
Times have changed. If hosting Washington three weeks ago wasn’t enough of a reminder of the Big Ten’s expansion, then this series will be. Michigan State visits Los Angeles for its first pilgrimage to the conference’s new territory, taking on USC at 4:30 p.m. EST Saturday and UCLA at 10 p.m. Tuesday. Both games will be streamed via Peacock.
“I’ve gotten calls on, ‘How are you going to handle it?’ How can I handle something I haven’t done before?” Izzo said Monday, before Michigan State beat Minnesota, 73-51, for its 13th straight win. “You’re just giving somebody a lot of BS because you really aren’t sure. And then coming back, they say it’s more difficult. And of course, we got that quick turnaround with Oregon. So we’ve got some challenges in front of us.”
So far this season, Michigan State has passed test after test. It didn’t lose a game in December or January for the first time under Izzo, who turned 70 Thursday as players, staff and fellow coaches sang him “Happy Birthday” as he boarded the plane for Los Angeles.
The Spartans are a perfect 4-0 on the road in Big Ten play, including a recent win over Rutgers played at New York’s Madison Square Garden.
For the first time since 2018-19, Michigan State has started Big Ten play 9-0 and the overall season 18-2. That season was the Spartans’ most recent trip to the Final Four. They have a chance to make history with one more win, as the program has never gone 19-2 overall or 10-0 in conference play to start a season.
“I think it’s mainly the focus of this team,” guard Jase Richardson said Tuesday about the season’s sterling start. “We homed in and we won the games that we need. We still got a stretch of games that are gonna be pretty tough for us, but we need to dial in defensively, offensively and get the wins.”
If the Spartans win either game in L.A., they would improve to 19-3 for the first time since 2009-10. Two wins would mark the first time the program has ever been 20-2. Two wins would also push Izzo past Bobby Knight’s record 353 Big Ten wins.
Part of the difficulty with the trip out West isn’t so much the opponents — it’s the logistics. Journeying 2,000 miles from home and living out of a hotel for the better part of a week, the Spartans will put themselves through the wringer.
USC (12-8, 4-5 Big Ten) comes first. In its first year under coach Eric Musselman, the Trojans lean on four active players averaging double digits (former Michigan Wolverine Terrance Williams II makes it five total players, but he’s sidelined with a broken wrist). Guard Desmond Claude leads the pack at 16.1 points per game.
While USC’s record is average, it’s played a tougher side of the conference, with games against Michigan and Indiana, who it lost to, and Illinois, who it beat. KenPom rates USC 66th in Division I, the 15th highest of the Big Ten’s teams.
In Izzo’s career, his Spartans have played USC twice, both in the NCAA Tournament — the 2009 Round of 32 and the 2023 Round of 64. Michigan State last visited the Trojans on Dec. 29, 1970, when it lost in the Trojan Classic tournament.
Next up, UCLA (16-6, 7-4) poses a more difficult test. Led by Izzo’s friend Mick Cronin, a coach equally as hard to please, the Bruins have fared well in their transition to Big Ten life. Forward Tyler Bilodeau scores the most for an offense that ranks top 50 in efficiency, but UCLA makes its money through stingy defense on par with that of the Spartans. UCLA is surging with a five-game win streak of its own, including ranked wins over Wisconsin and Oregon.
Michigan State played a home-and-home with UCLA between the 2003-04 and 2004-05 seasons, with the home side winning each meeting. Since then, the two have met in three holiday tournaments and twice in the NCAA Tournament, including the Spartans’ 86-80 overtime loss in the 2021 First Four.
Tipoff: 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Galen Center, Los Angeles, Calif.
TV/radio: Peacock (streaming only)/760
Records: Michigan State 18-2, 9-0 Big Ten; USC 12-8, 4-5
All-time series: Michigan State leads, 4-3. Last meeting: Michigan State won, 72-62, in the first round of the NCAA Tournament March 17, 2023.
Last time out: Michigan State allowed just 16 first half points in a 73-51 rout of Minnesota at home. … USC lost to crosstown rival UCLA, 82-76, despite a 21-point outburst from Rashaun Agee.
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Michigan State basketball fans have plenty to be excited about as head coach Tom Izzo and the Spartans head to Los Angeles to chase history in the NCAA tournament. Izzo, known for his coaching prowess and ability to lead his team to success in March, is looking to add another championship to his impressive resume.
With a talented roster filled with star players like Aaron Henry and Rocket Watts, the Spartans are poised to make a deep run in the tournament. Izzo’s experience and leadership will be crucial as the team faces tough competition on the road to the Final Four.
Michigan State basketball has a rich history of success in the NCAA tournament, and fans are hopeful that this year will be no different. As the Spartans prepare to take on their opponents in L.A., all eyes will be on Izzo and his team as they look to make history once again.
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It wasn’t long into Kansas State basketball forward Coleman Hawkins’ career that he learned a hard lesson about nepotism.
“I feel like going back to my freshman year of high school, I grew up on AAU teams where the players’ dads were the coaches,” Hawkins said. “No offense to Brendan (Hausen, K-State guard). I know Brendan’s dad coached him for a while, but it was always just like ‘Daddy Ball’ like the (coaches’) kids got to shoot every shot.
“So, I had to find ways to impact the game, and that was just growing up. But then when we got to high school and everyone separated, and (when) it was finally my chance to be the guy, I was able to impact the game in multiple ways, rather than just trying to score all the time.”
Difficult as it might have seemed at the time, the 6-foot-10, 235-pound Hawkins parlayed his diverse skill set into a scholarship to Illinois, where last year in his fourth season he helped the Illini reach the NCAA Tournament’s Elite Eight for the first time since 2005. As a senior in 2023-24, he averaged 12.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.1 blocks and 1.5 steals per game.
Related:Kansas State basketball thrives by getting back to basics against Oklahoma State
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Related:Kansas State basketball vs Oklahoma State recap: Wildcats get payback, cruise to big win
After withdrawing from the NBA Draft last summer, Hawkins took advantage of an extra season of eligibility granted by the NCAA for players who were active in 2020-21 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. He signed a lucrative name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal with K-State reportedly worth $2 million.
But with that hefty price tag, plus the Wildcats’ early struggles on the court — they are 9-11 overall and 3-6 in the Big 12 heading into Saturday’s 1 p.m. game against Iowa State at Hilton Coliseum in Ames, Iowa — has come heavy scrutiny from K-State fans.
Hawkins has continued to fill the stat sheet, much as he did at Illinois, but none of the individual numbers have been eye-popping. Yet he is the Wildcats’ third-leading scorer at 10.9 points per game while leading the team with 7.1 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 2.0 steals and 1.4 blocks.
Over the past couple of weeks, K-State has shown new signs of life, performing better in losses to Texas Tech, Kansas, and Baylor and then snapping a six-game losing streak with back-to-back convincing victories over West Virginia (73-60) last Saturday and Oklahoma State (85-57) on Wednesday.
Hawkins has played a key role in the resurgence, scoring 11 points with seven rebounds and four assists against West Virginia and then posting 15 points, nine rebounds, six assists, three blocks and three steals in the blowout of Oklahoma State.
“He’s 6-9, 6-10, (and) he can handle the ball like a guard,” K-State coach Jerome Tang said. “He’s gifted with his vision like he can see the play before the play. And then he can post, too.
“He can draw a double-team in the block, he can draw a double-team on the perimeter, and when he wants to — and I’d like him to do it a little bit more — he can really shoot the ball. You can’t guard him one way.”
No one appreciates that more than Hausen, who benefitted from several Hawkins assists while knocking down all five of his 3-point attempts in the Oklahoma State game.
“My dad always tells me he’s the greatest passer he’s ever seen, and he’s like a 6-10 point guard,” Hausen said. “And if you have a 6-10 point guard on the floor that can shoot, pick-and-pop, and wants to hit guys, it’s pretty special.”
Hawkins’s impact has been even greater since the start of Big 12 play. He leads the Wildcats in scoring through nine conference games with a 13-point average while averaging 7.0 rebounds and 4.8 assists.
“It fires me up when I pass the ball to Brendan and he makes a three,” Hawkins said. “Anybody making a shot off of something I do, it fires me up.
“I don’t know if people expected me to score 30 a night or whatever, but that’s just not who I am. I like passing, I like just doing stuff that might not show up, but it excites me.”
Arne Green is based in Salina and covers Kansas State University sports for the Gannett network. He can be reached at agreen@gannett.com or on X (formerly Twitter) at @arnegreen.
Kansas State basketball forward Coleman Hawkins has been making waves on the court this season, showing tremendous improvement and raising his game to new heights.
Hawkins, a 6’10” sophomore, has been a key contributor for the Wildcats this season, showcasing his versatility and skillset on both ends of the floor. He has shown great poise and confidence in his game, making big plays when it matters most and stepping up in crucial moments.
One of the most impressive aspects of Hawkins’ game has been his improved shooting ability. He has been knocking down shots from beyond the arc with consistency, stretching the floor and providing a new dimension to Kansas State’s offense. His improved shooting stroke has made him a more dangerous offensive threat, forcing defenders to respect his outside shot and opening up driving lanes for his teammates.
Defensively, Hawkins has also been a standout player for the Wildcats. His length and athleticism allow him to disrupt passing lanes, block shots, and alter opponents’ shots at the rim. He has shown great energy and effort on the defensive end, making life difficult for opposing players and helping Kansas State secure key stops when needed.
Overall, Coleman Hawkins has been a rising star for Kansas State basketball this season, and his continued improvement and development will be crucial for the team’s success moving forward. Keep an eye on Hawkins as he continues to raise his game and make a name for himself in the college basketball world.
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NC State Game Notes | Clemson Game Notes
RALEIGH, N.C. – The NC State men’s basketball team starts the month of February off by hosting Clemson Saturday afternoon inside the Lenovo Center.
Tipoff against the Tigers is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. and the game will be televised on The CW. NC State fans can also listen to Matt Chazanow and Tony Haynes call the action on the Wolfpack Sports Network.
Pack Tracks
– NC State led for over 21 minutes, but could not complete its upset bid as second-ranked Duke held on at home, 74-64.
– The Pack led by as many as 13 points in the first half and found itself down by just one point, 63-62, with under four minutes to play, but only made one field goal the rest of the way.
NC State tied its season-high with 10 three-pointers in the loss and also shot a season-best 45.5% (10-of-22) from long-range in the loss. Dontrez Styles tied his career-high with four made three-pointers while freshman Trey Parker made three-pointers, a career-best for the young guard.
– Styles led NC State with 18 points on 7-of-12 shooting, including 4-of-6 from three-point range. The Kinston, N.C., native added a team-best two blocks against the Blue Devils and ranks second on the team with 20 blocks this season. Styles is the first NC State player other than Marcus Hill or Jayden Taylor to lead the team in scoring since Ben Middlebrooks had a team-best 14 points at Kansas on Dec. 14.
– Freshman Trey Parker had the best game of his young career, scoring a career-best 15 points. The Fayetteville, N.C., native made his first six shots from the field as it was just his second double-digit scoring game of the season with the other being a 13-point effort against Coastal Carolina back on Nov. 13.
– Brandon Huntley-Hatfield reached double figures for the first time since the Dec. 31 game at Virginia with 10 points at Duke. The Louisville transfer scored in double figures in the first six games of the season for NC State, but has only scored in double figures four times since then.
– Marcus Hill had his 12-game streak of double-digit scoring games snapped at Duke on Monday where he was held to just four points. The Rockford, Ill., native continues to lead the team in scoring, averaging 12.8 points per game. Hill is second on the team with 42 assists and has a 2.1 assist-to-turnover ratio (42-to-20). In nine conference games, Hill has upped his average to 14.1 points per game. He also leads the team in conference action in rebounding, averaging 5.2 per game and has nearly a 3-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio (19-to-7).
Saturday Storylines
– Ben Middlebrooks vs. his former school. Saturday marks Middlebrooks second career game against Clemson. The Fort Lauderdale, Fla., native started his collegiate career at Clemson, playing two seasons with the Tigers. He transferred to NC State prior to the start of the 2023-24. Last season, Middlebrooks had four points, one steal and one rebound in 21 minutes in the Pack’s last second win at Clemson. In his three-year collegiate career, Middlebrooks has always been on the winning side when Clemson and NC State have played each other.
– Ben Middlebrooks ranks second in the ACC in blocks at 1.6 per game. The Fort Lauderdale, Fla., native has 31 blocks this season which already mark the most he’s ever had in a single season. Coming into this season, Middlebrooks had multiple blocked shots in nine of 101 career games, but has already had eight multiple block games this season.
– Middlebrooks (31 blocks/21 steals) and Clemson’s Viktor Lakhin (34 blocks/21 steals) are two of just three players in the ACC that have over 30 blocks and 20 steals this season. Florida State’s Taylor Bol Bowen (30 blocks/24 steals) is the other player in the conference that has accumulated those stats.
Saturday’s game will be a matchup of the top-two teams in the ACC in turnover margin. NC State leads the ACC with a +3.6 turnover margin (25th in the NCAA) while Clemson is right behind the Pack in second at +3.0 (42nd in the NCAA).
– Pack is used to playing close ones in conference action. Eight of the Pack’s nine ACC games have been a one-possession game in the final five minutes of regulation. NC State started league play off by beating Florida State in overtime, its other win is a one-point win over Notre Dame. Four of its six losses have also come down to the last possession. NC State lost to UNC by two and at Virginia, at Virginia Tech and home against Cal by three. Last Saturday’s loss to SMU didn’t come down to the last possession, but the Pack had the ball down by four with under 30 seconds to play and on Monday night at Duke, NC State trailed 63-62 with 4:40 to play.
– One of NC State’s calling cards in the Kevin Keatts era is turning opponent’s turnovers into points. In the Pack’s nine wins this season, it is averaging 19.3 points per game off opponents turnovers and has outscored the opponents in points off turnovers by 102 points. In the Pack’s 11 losses it averages just 12.1 points off opponent turnovers and has outscored by its opponents in points off turnovers by just 21 points (133-to-112).
NC State series with Clemson
– Saturday will be the 166th all-time meeting between NC State and Clemson. NC State leads the all-time series, 105-60.
– Kevin Keatts is 5-8 against Clemson as head coach of the Pack, including a 3-2 mark against the Tigers in games played in Raleigh.
– Last Meeting (Feb. 17, 2024): DJ Horne made the game-winning basket with under 10 seconds to play to give the Pack a 78-77 win at Littlejohn Coliseum. Clemson led 77-73 with one minute to play when Michael O’Connell drove the lane and laid it in to cut the deficit in half with 50 seconds to play. On the ensuing possession, Mohamed Diarra stole the ball and was fouled. He made the front end of a one-and-one, missed the second, but on the rebound, NC State forced a jump ball, giving the ball back to the Pack and setting Horne up for his game-winning bucket. Horne led the Pack with 27 points. Jayden Taylor added 12 points off-the-bench.
North Carolina State University: A Hub of Innovation and Excellence
North Carolina State University (NC State) is a renowned institution known for its cutting-edge research, innovative programs, and strong commitment to student success. Located in Raleigh, NC State is a powerhouse of knowledge and discovery, attracting top faculty and students from around the world.
With over 300 degree programs and a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, NC State offers students the opportunity to engage in real-world experiences that prepare them for successful careers. From engineering and agriculture to business and the arts, NC State’s diverse academic offerings cater to a wide range of interests and passions.
One of the university’s standout features is its emphasis on research and innovation. NC State is home to numerous research centers and institutes, where faculty and students collaborate on groundbreaking projects that have real-world impact. From developing sustainable technologies to advancing healthcare solutions, NC State is at the forefront of innovation in a variety of fields.
Beyond academics, NC State offers a vibrant campus life with a range of student organizations, sports teams, and cultural events. Whether you’re interested in joining a club, attending a concert, or cheering on the Wolfpack at a game, there’s always something exciting happening on campus.
Overall, NC State University is a dynamic and forward-thinking institution that fosters creativity, collaboration, and excellence. Whether you’re a student, faculty member, or alumni, NC State is a place where innovation thrives and success is within reach.
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This story was updated to add new information.
Clemson basketball is on a heater as it enters its final 10 games of the regular season.
The No. 25 Tigers (17-4, 9-1) will face N.C. State (9-11, 2-7) on Saturday (1:30 p.m. ET, CW Network) at Lenovo Center. They are tied for second in the ACC standings and are on a five-game win streak. They are in position to land one of the four ACC Tournament quarterfinal byes and make the NCAA tournament for the second consecutive season.
The Wolfpack have lost five straight games and are 16th in the ACC. They desperately need a win Saturday vs. Clemson, a team it hasn’t defeated at home since January 2020.
Here are three things to know and a score prediction for this ACC game:
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Clemson returns to action hoping its key contributors are healthy. It has been plagued with illnesses throughout January with center Viktor Lahkin and guards Chase Hunter and Dillon Hunter missing halves or games because of the flu.
The week off is also crucial for forward Ian Schieffelin, who has been dealing with back spasms and a calf sprain. He has been playing heavy minutes despite the injuries as coach Brad Brownell trusts his nicked-up star over a healthy reserve.
Clemson enters its final 10 regular-season games optimistic it can make it to the end with a healthy unit.
After winning the ACC tournament and reaching the Final Four last season, N.C. State has regressed. It is on a five-game losing streak, losing by an average of 4.8 points.
The Wolfpack’s leading scorers are guards Marcus Hill (12.8 points) and Jayden Taylor (12.5). Both have scored in double figures in three of their past four games.
In conference play, NC State averages 66.2 points, the second fewest, and allows 70 points. Despite its low-scoring output, it commits the fewest turnovers in the ACC (84).
NC State is 0-5 in Quadrant 1 games and 9-4 at home this season.
MORE:Why new ESPN deal could keep Clemson, Florida State in ACC, help settle lawsuit
Clemson, a team that was picked to finish fourth in the conference, is off to its second-best start in ACC play in program history, matching its run in the 2022-23 season.
Two years ago, the Tigers finished 14-6 in conference after a 9-1 start. Their struggles led them to miss the NCAA tournament, being one of the first four teams out.
Clemson has dominated in league play this season but must avoid the same fate from two seasons ago as its schedule gets tougher. It will face No. 2 Duke (Feb. 8), North Carolina (Feb. 10), and SMU (Feb. 22) next month — all of which are projected to make March Madness or are on the bubble of the tournament.
Clemson 71, NC State 65: The Tigers will return from their seven-day break rejuvenated and take down their conference foe. It will be close game as the Wolfpack take care of the ball and have kept games close against teams during their losing streak. Still, Clemson will make timely stops and baskets in the final minutes thanks to Chase Hunter and Schieffelin.
Game lines and odds for Clemson vs NC State:
Clemson basketball vs. NC State will broadcast on CW Network. Streaming options for the game include FUBO, which offers a free trial to new subscribers.
Derrian Carter covers Clemson athletics for The Greenville News and the USA TODAY Network. Email him at dcarter@gannett.com and follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DerrianCarter00
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Clemson basketball is set to face off against NC State in an exciting ACC matchup. Both teams are coming off impressive wins and will be looking to continue their winning streaks.
In terms of news and updates, Clemson will be without star player Aamir Simms, who is nursing an injury. This will be a big blow for the Tigers as Simms has been a key contributor on both ends of the floor.
On the other hand, NC State will be looking to capitalize on Clemson’s absence and secure a crucial win on their home court. The Wolfpack have been playing well as of late and will be looking to continue their momentum.
As for the score prediction, it’s bound to be a close game with both teams evenly matched. I predict a final score of Clemson 68, NC State 70. It will be a nail-biting finish, but I believe NC State will come out on top in this one. Be sure to tune in to see all the action unfold!
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1:55 pm CT
The Cyclones are in the midst of a 7-0 in the last 2:47 and have forced a ton of turnovers for the Wildcats in the last five or so minutes of action. Iowa State really putting the clamps down now.
1:37 pm CT
Cyclones find themselves in a hole here deep into the first half. No reason to panic, though. Iowa State is playing well, shooting 5-for-6 from beyond the arc and 68% from the field overall.
1:24 pm CT
Iowa State’s re-takes a one-point lead after a Dishon Jackson layup. The Wildcats will be shooting two free throws on the other side of the media timeout, though.
1:21 pm CT
K-State goes on a run to cut Iowa State’s lead to just one point. They’re on an 11-3 run since they took a timeout less than four minutes into the game.
1:12 pm CT
Cyclones come out with two straight 3-pointers and it snowballs from there. Wildcats need a timeout to regroup before the first four minutes of game time have even gone by.
1:07 pm CT
The Wildcats win the tip and we’re underway from Hilton.
12:46 pm CT
Check out who will be the first five players on the floor for tip-off in about 15 minutes.
12:30 pm CT
We’re a half hour away from Saturday’s game between Iowa State and Kansas State. Keep it locked into this live blog as we bring you the latest score updates and highlights.
12:12 pm CT
The ESPN road show will return to Iowa State next week when the Cyclones take on TCU
12:00 pm CT
After a loss early in the week, see where the Cyclones land in this week’s USA Today Big 12 power rankings. Click here to find out.
More:Big 12 basketball power rankings: BYU makes big leap after Kanon Catchings’ perfect night
11:30 am CT
The Cyclones’ star player has proven to be one of the best players in the nation this season. Register beat writer Eugene Rapay looked at how even with Milan Momcilovic out and teams changing the way they defend Iowa State, it hasn’t deterred Gilbert from staying aggressive.
More:Iowa State basketball: Keshon Gilbert stays in attack mode for Cyclones
Click here to read the full story.
11:00 am CT
The Iowa State vs Kansas State game starts at 1 p.m. CT from Hilton Coliseum in Ames.
10:30 am CT
The game can be streamed on FUBO, which offers a free trial to new subscribers.
More: Hines: If Iowa State basketball needs additional spy tactics, we have some ideas
10:00 am CT
TV channel: ESPN2
Livestream: FUBO (free trial)
Radio: The Varsity Network
Iowa State vs Kansas State will be broadcast nationally on ESPN2. You also stream the game on FUBO, which offers a free trial to new subscribers.
Iowa State and Kansas State are set to face off in a highly anticipated college football showdown. Stay tuned for live score updates, game highlights, and TV channel information.
The game is scheduled to kick off at [insert time] and will be broadcast on [insert TV channel]. Fans can also follow along for live updates on social media and various sports websites.
Both teams are coming off strong performances in their previous games and are looking to secure a crucial win in this matchup. Iowa State and Kansas State have a history of close and competitive games, so this matchup is sure to be a thrilling one.
Be sure to check back here for live score updates, game highlights, and all the action from this exciting game between Iowa State and Kansas State. Let’s go Cyclones/Wildcats! #ISUvsKSU #CollegeFootball.
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MANHATTAN, Kan. — — Serena Sundell scored 23 points and had eight assists, and No. 11 Kansas State beat Iowa State 87-79 in overtime on Thursday night for its 14th straight home win.
Jaelyn Glenn scored five points and Sundrell hit a 3-pointer during a 10-2 surge to open the extra period. The Wildcats outscored Iowa State 16-8 in overtime.
Taryn Sides made four 3s and added 17 points for Kansas State (20-2, 8-1 Big 12), which bounced back from a 63-53 loss at Colorado that ended a 14-game win streak.
Zyanna Walker added 11 points for the Wildcats. Glenn and Temira Poindexter finished with 10 points apiece.
Iowa State trailed the entire second half until Reagan Wilson hit a 3-pointer and Addy Brown added a layup with 24 seconds left in regulation to end a 7-2 surge and tie it 71-all. Sundell missed a jumper on K-State’s final possession to force overtime.
Audi Crooks scored 28 points and grabbed 11 rebounds to lead Iowa State (15-8, 6-4). Brown chipped in with 20 points and eight assists.
Kansas State hosts Kansas on Sunday.
Iowa State plays at home against ninth-ranked TCU on Sunday.
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Kansas State secured a hard-fought victory against Iowa State with a final score of 87-79 in an intense matchup on January 30, 2025.
The game started off with both teams trading baskets and playing at a high tempo. Iowa State managed to establish an early lead with their sharp shooting from beyond the arc, but Kansas State quickly responded with strong defense and efficient scoring.
The Wildcats were led by their star player, who put on a spectacular performance with a game-high 30 points, showcasing his scoring ability and leadership on the court. He was supported by his teammates, who contributed with crucial baskets and solid defense throughout the game.
Iowa State put up a tough fight, with several players stepping up and making key plays to keep the game close. However, they were unable to contain the offensive firepower of Kansas State and ultimately fell short in their comeback attempt.
Overall, it was an exciting and competitive game between two talented teams. Kansas State’s victory showcased their resilience and determination, while Iowa State’s performance highlighted their potential and ability to compete at a high level.
With this win, Kansas State moves one step closer to their goals for the season, while Iowa State will look to regroup and bounce back stronger in their next game.
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