MANHATTAN, Kan. — The only question was when. When would the Missouri Tigers lose their first basketball game of the season?
That question was answered Saturday afternoon in Manhattan. The Tigers feel from the ranks of the undefeated in losing to Kansas State, 75-59. The Wildcats (12-2, 1-1), coming off a road loss at Kansas to open Big 12 play, used a quick start to startle the Tigers and never let Missouri get into an offensive rhythm after falling in a early hole.
Kansas State was led by senior guard Rodney McGruder who scored 20 points on 9 of 17 shooting. Kansas State led by as many as 23 points in the first half, and by 19 at the half, 44-25. Missouri (14-1,1-1) climbed to within twelve points in the second half, but got no closer.
Missouri was led by senior guard Marcus Denmon who had 17. Michael Dixon came off the bench and added 16. Kansas State won the rebounding battle 36-22. It was the first time this season the Tigers lack of size inside has been so apparent in the final box score. The announced official attendance at Bramlage Coliseum was 12,528.
