Wichita State rebounded from a slow start to defeat Rice for their first home win of the season.
Newcomers stepped into the spotlight and the Shockers defeated Rice by 29.
The Shockers have won just one out of their last three games against Conference USA opponents. WSU lost to Louisiana Tech to start their season, and lost to Marshall in the NCAA Tournament last season.
After shooting a mere 16 percent in the Charleston Classic a week ago, freshman Erik Stevenson erupted for a career-high 21 points off the bench. He also recorded five rebounds and two assists.