Los Angeles, CA

The Wichita State Shockers are bound for the Elite Eight, after beating the La Salle Explorers 72-58 on Thursday night at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. The Sweet 16 victory advances the Shockers to the final eight of the NCAA tournament for the first time in 32 years.

Wichita State's size advantage was apparent from the start as the Shockers took a commanding 17-3 lead from the start.

Without 6-foot-11 center Steve Zack, La Salle's four-guard offense that got La Salle to the Sweet 16 was ineffective. La Salle shot a meager 35.7% (20 of 56) as the Explorers were unable drive past or shoot over the stronger and taller Shockers. The Shockers dominated the boards with a 47-29 rebounding advantage.

Malcolm Armstead led Wichita State with 18 points; Carl Hall (16) and Ron Baker (13) provided double-figure contributions as well. Jerrell Wright and Tyrone Garland scored 16 apiece for La Salle.

Wichita State advances to the Elite Eight for the first time since 1981 where they will face the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Wichita State Cruises Past La Salle