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OU Beats No. 18 Kansas State, Gets First Big 12 Win

It had been a disappointing start to the Big 12 season for Oklahoma, starting the conference schedule 0-3.

The Sooners took a giant step forward Saturday, with an 82-73 victory over No. 18 Kansas State.

"It was a huge game for us," Kruger said. "I'm really proud of the guys. I really thought they battled from start to finish. What made it more special is Kansas State is a legitimate top 20 team."

Oklahoma (11-5, 1-3 in Big 12) led the entire game but had to fend off several Kansas State runs while being out-rebounded 44-24.

Andrew Fitzgerald led Oklahoma with 21 points, while Romero Osby and Steven Pledger both had 18 and Cameron Clark added 10.

"We just came out and shot the ball with confidence," Fitzgerald said. "It all comes down to us working hard at practice."

Rodney McGruder had 19 points to lead Kansas State (12-4, 1-3) while Nino Williams and Jeremy Jones each added 12 points.

A former All-Big Eight point guard for Kansas State in his playing days, Kruger took more pleasure in watching his team stand up to Kansas State's comebacks than beating his alma mater.

Oklahoma shot 55 percent from the field overall and 70 percent in the second half. Kansas State made things a little easier, contributing 19 turnovers.

"Making shots is the remedy when you're not doing other things well," Kruger said. "A lot of guys stepped forward as you have to do to beat a good team."

Trailing by nine points at halftime, Kansas State fell behind by as many as 18 in the second half.

The Wildcats cut the deficit to six with 57 seconds remaining but were forced to foul late and the Sooners made four of six free throws over the final 1:21.

Up next, OU welcomes Texas Tech to the Lloyd Noble Center on Tuesday night.  Tip-off is at 7 o'clock.