Nino Williams’ listed as doubtful against KU

Jan 3, 2015; Stillwater, OK, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys guard Anthony Hickey Jr. (12) drives to the basket against Kansas State Wildcats forward Nino Williams (11) during the second half at Gallagher-Iba Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Kansas State basketball fans … breath a sigh of relief.

There has been positive news the last couple days about Nino Williams after he gave Kansas State faithful a scare during Tuesday’s 65-59 loss to West Virginia after tweaking his knee just a few minutes into the game.

Kellis Robinett of the Kansas City Star reported, Williams won’t miss extended time and that there was no structural damage to his left knee.

That is more than great news for the Wildcats.

Williams has been one of K-State’s top players, averaging 11.7 points and 4.9 rebounds. He has twice been selected Big 12 player of the week. Before suffering his latest injury, he averaged 20 points and seven rebounds in three consecutive games.

K-State now turns its attention to the No. 9-ranked Kansas Jayhawks in the first of two rounds of the Sunflower State Showdown on Saturday in Lawrence.

The Wildcats need all the help they can get at 1 p.m. Central Time.

Even though he’s listed as doubtful against KU, he will undoubtedly will do what it takes to help his team.

Kansas State struggled with the the West Virginia’s pressure and had a season-high 25 turnovers against a team that has the nations best turnover margin.

KU’s turnover margin is -0.9 compared to 9.7 that WVU, but the Jayhawks will bring the heat with 16,300 screaming fans behind them.

After Tuesday’s setback, Saturday’s game is a must a must-win if Kansas State wants to stay in the hunt for a Big 12 championship.