Ezra Ausar scored 21 points and hauled in eight rebounds to lead Utah to a 74-69 win over Kansas State on Monday night in Salt Lake City.
Ausar scored 15 points in the second half and went 7-for-7 from the free-throw line, helping the Utes secure their second consecutive victory.
Utah started strong, taking an early 10-point lead in the first half, but Kansas State fought back to narrow the deficit to two points at halftime.
In the second half, Ausar took over, scoring 15 points and making several key plays to help Utah pull away.
Kansas State made a late surge, cutting the lead to three points with just over a minute remaining, but Ausar sealed the win with a pair of free throws.
The win marked Utah's third victory in their last four games and improved their record, giving them momentum heading into their next matchup.
Utah's coach praised Ausar's performance, saying he was the difference-maker in the game.
Ausar's 21 points and eight rebounds were a season high, and his perfect free-throw shooting was a key factor in the Utes' win.
Kansas State's coach, on the other hand, was disappointed with his team's performance, saying they struggled to contain Ausar and couldn't make enough plays down the stretch.
The loss dropped Kansas State's record, and they will look to bounce back in their next game.
Utah will look to build on their winning streak as they head into their next matchup, and Ausar will be a key player to watch.
The Utes' victory was a thrilling one, and fans are eagerly anticipating their next game to see if they can continue their winning ways.