Ayoka Lee made a strong comeback, scoring 17 points and grabbing 10 rebounds, as fifth-seeded Kansas State cruised past Fairfield 85-41 in the first round of the NCAA women’s tournament on Friday.
Lee, who had been sidelined with foot injuries, was highly efficient, shooting 7-for-10 from the field in her first full game since February. The 6-foot-6 center played 15 minutes before exiting late in the third quarter but assured that she felt good and could have played longer if needed.
The Wildcats (27-7) will now face host Kentucky in the second round on Sunday.
No. 12 seed Fairfield (28-5) struggled offensively, shooting a season-low 29.4% from the field. Katey L’Amoreaux led the Stags with 11 points. Despite the lopsided loss, Fairfield coach Carly Thibault-DuDonis praised Kansas State’s depth, emphasizing that the team is formidable with or without their All-American center.
Kansas State controlled the game from the start, jumping to a 17-4 lead and extending their advantage with a dominant 11-2 run in the second half. Serena Sundell led the Wildcats with 18 points and nine assists, while Taryn Sides added 14 points.
Head coach Jeff Mittie acknowledged Fairfield’s fast-paced style presented a challenge for Lee in her return but credited his team for executing well early.
Statistically, Kansas State capitalized on their size advantage, outrebounding Fairfield 44-19 and outscoring them in the paint 44-20.
With Lee back in action, the Wildcats look poised for a deeper tournament run as they prepare for their next challenge against Kentucky.
