Hawkins has earned the respect of K-State fans over the past week. He has proven his toughness by returning from a serious injury after a three-game absence to lead the Wildcats to a gritty road win over Cincinnati. Then he gave K-State four points, nine rebounds and five assists in a losing effort against Iowa State.

Kansas State's offensive struggles played right into Iowa State's strength. When facing one of the country's top defenses, you can't give them anything to disadvantage yourself

Kansas State basketball could not build on its two-game winning streak Saturday despite an enthusiastic senior day crowd as No. 10-ranked Iowa State jumped on the Wildcats early and cruised to a 73-57 victory at Bramlage Coliseum.