Kansas State Star Forward Jamar Samuels Ruled Ineligible for Clash with Syracuse

Kansas State forward Jamar Samuels won't play against No. 1 seed Syracuse in Saturday's third round game because of eligibility reasons, reports the Post Standard.

"

Just got a release: K-State officials announce that Jamar Samuels is ineligible for today's game vs. Syracuse. Eligibility concerns. MW

— Syracuse Basketball (@PSBasketball) March 17, 2012"

With Syracuse center Fab Melo was ruled ineligible for the NCAA Tournament earlier this week, both teams have lost two of their best rebounders and defensive players.

What it Means for the Wildcats

Kansas State's loss of Samuels is a massive one. He is the team's second leading scorer and leading rebounder. His defense is also solid, which means his absence will affect the No. 8 seed Wildcat's at both ends of the floor.

With Syracuse's ability to rebound well hurt by Melo's absence, beating the Orange on the boards was going to be a key part of the Wildcats' chances for an upset. Without Samuels, this challenge has become a lot harder.

Even though Samuels' loss will hurt the Wildcats, they were able to defeat No. 9 seed Southern Miss 70-64 in a game where Samuels scored just one point and committed three fouls.

They can win without him, but it will be a difficult task for the Wildcats.

What it Means for Syracuse

Syracuse can breathe a little easier because now the Wildcats don't have their best rebounder, which will allow the Orange big men to grab defensive boards and help ignite the fast break.

The Orange only won the rebounding battle over No. 16 UNC-Asheville by two, 33-31, in their narrow second round victory. They must box out better and be more aggressive to win the battle of the boards against Kansas State.

Syracuse forwards Rakeem Christmas and Kris Joseph must step up and defend well to help the Orange advance past a short handed Kansas State squad and earn a berth into the Sweet 16.

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