Kansas State vs. Texas Southern: Bruce Weber kept focus on 'trap game'

Kansas State head coach Bruce Weber knew not to overlook Texas Southern just because the Tigers have struggled this season. And indeed, the Wildcats (8-2) had their hands full in a 78-69 win over the Tigers (1-10) on Tuesday night.

After the game, Weber told reporters this was a game he had his players keep their eyes on, saying Texas Southern was a team they shouldn't overlook:

"When you look at the schedule a couple weeks ago, and you knew you had Gonzaga and Florida, I kept reminding our guys that if you watch Texas Southern scores, they are a team to be reckoned with," Weber said. "It is a tough game and it is a trap game. I think Stephen F. Austin beat Oklahoma tonight, so you get these holiday games, that if you are not ready to play, teams come in and make plays. These guys are for real."

True to Weber's words, the Tigers were a pesky out. But the Wildcats didn't exactly help their cause, hitting only 2 of 13 three-point attempts. Texas Southern was down only six points with 1:13 remaining, but the Wildcats made four free throws down the stretch to hold off the Tigers. Rodney McGruder scored 26 points to lead Kansas State, which has a big test on Saturday when it hosts the No. 5 Florida Gators.