Northern Colorado of the Big Sky Conference spoiled the season opener for the Kansas State Wildcats Friday night at Bramlage Coliseum with a 60-58 win over the Wildcats.

The Bears, who were 13-18 last season, but returned five starters,  out rebounded the Wildcats, held Kansas State to 33.9% shooting from the field, and hit 15 of 25 free throws compared to 16 of 33 for K-State.

KSU coach Bruce Weber said he had emphasized to his team how important the first game was, and how they needed to be ready and be prepared. “We have a saying in our locker room. It’s up on the wall. What’s greater, you’re excuses or your desire. And we have too many excuses and not enough desire.” Weber also stated that Northern Colorado out toughed and out competed the Wildcats. “You’ve got to give Barden so much credit. He just pumped us, had 16 and 17.

Derrick Barden finished with 16 points and 17 rebounds for the Bears.

K-State led at halftime 29-24 but Northern Colorado surged ahead in the second half before the Wildcats tied the contest at 51-51.

Missed free throws and a pair of key offensive rebounds by the Bears were factors in the outcome. Kansas State also managed to make just two of 19 3-point shot attempts in the ballgame. Northern Colorado was just 3-13 from 3-point range.

K-State post player Thomas Gibson did not play due to an injury. After the game Weber noted Gibson was dinged up, has been going through a battery of tests, but is back on the court. He stated Gibson’s playing status is  “day by day, game by game.”

The Wildcats host Oral Roberts Wednesday night.