Freddy Asprilla, a 6-foot-9 transfer from Florida International, had been away from basketball for a whole year. Signs of rust plauged his ability early in the season. However, things are starting to settle in for Asprilla.

In their most recent game, the Kansas State Wildcats (6-1) were victorious at home against Division II Emporia State by a score of 85-61. Jacob Pullen, who finished with a season-high 26 points, claimed the Wildcats’ career three-point record midway through the game.

Asprilla was also in double-figures for the Wildcats with 17 points–a new career high–to compliment eight rebounds, three assists, and two blocks.

Asprilla has yet to consistently show the dominance on offense that he did against Emporia State. However, the progression of Asprilla seems to become easier on the eyes as the season progresses.

“He is a very talented offensive player and he will continue to get better for us,” said K-State head coach Frank Martin. “He is defending the post for us better than any other big man on our team.”

Pullen is also seeing the improvement in Asprilla. “He has a great feel for the game. He just had to get used to contact,” said Pullen. “The things that he is able to do inside now, he was not able to do at the start of the season.”

Rodney McGruder also spoke highly of Asprilla. “He is getting more comfortable in the system. He is looking to score for himself as well as create for others. Basically he is just getting comfortable.”

Asprilla struggled to get into a groove during the first couple of games as a Wildcat. The previous game against Emporia State was the only time Asprilla scored in double-figures since the exhibition games.

Nonetheless, fans have witnessed Asprilla blossom into an offensive threat down low. Complimenting that, he is now defending the way Martin wants him to defend, and he could continue to see the starting lineup in future games.

Kansas State plays a tough Pac-10 Washington State team Friday night, on the road. This will be a good challenge for Asprilla as the Cougars have legitimate size in their frontcourt.

If the Wildcats and Asprilla can get things done against a stingy Cougars defense that allows just 55.4 points to opposing teams, fans will get a good glimpse of just how good Kansas State is offensively with the emergence of Asprilla.