What's Happening?
The Kansas Jayhawks and Green Bay Phoenix men's basketball teams are set to open their 2025 seasons against each other. The game will take place on November 3 at 8 p.m. ET at Allen Fieldhouse in Lawrence, Kansas. Kansas enters the season following a significant
71-35 exhibition victory over Fort Hays State, with Melvin Council Jr. leading the team with 16 points. Last season, Kansas finished with a 21-13 record but was eliminated in the first round of the NCAA tournament by Arkansas. Green Bay, on the other hand, struggled last season, winning only two games in the Horizon League and finishing with a 4-28 record. This matchup marks the first-ever meeting between the two schools in men's basketball. The game will not be broadcast on live TV but will be available for streaming on ESPN+.
Why It's Important?
This game is significant as it marks the beginning of the 2025 season for both teams, setting the tone for their respective campaigns. For Kansas, a strong start could help erase the memory of last season's early tournament exit and build momentum. Green Bay, meanwhile, is looking to improve upon a challenging previous season. The game also highlights the growing trend of sports events being streamed online, as traditional TV broadcasts are bypassed in favor of platforms like ESPN+. This shift could impact how fans engage with college sports, potentially increasing accessibility for viewers who prefer streaming services.
What's Next?
Following this game, Kansas will continue its season with a series of challenging matchups, including games against North Carolina and Duke. Green Bay will also face a series of opponents, including Buffalo and Minnesota. Both teams will aim to refine their strategies and improve their standings as the season progresses. The outcome of this game could influence team morale and fan support, impacting their performance in upcoming games.
