What's Happening?
Kansas basketball, under the leadership of head coach Bill Self, is gearing up for the start of Big 12 conference play following a strong finish to their non-conference schedule. The Jayhawks recently defeated Davidson with a decisive 90-61 victory, showcasing one of their most efficient offensive performances of the season. The team shot 58% from the field and 52% from three-point range, with six players scoring in double figures. As they prepare to face UCF in their Big 12 opener, Kansas is ranked No. 16 in KenPom and No. 11 in Torvik, indicating a strong position going into the conference games. Self expressed confidence in his team's capabilities, acknowledging the tough schedule ahead, which includes facing top-ranked teams like Iowa State
and Arizona twice.
Why It's Important?
The upcoming Big 12 play is crucial for Kansas as it will test their ability to compete against some of the best teams in the country. The Big 12 is known for its competitive nature, and performing well in this conference is often indicative of a team's potential success in the national tournament. Kansas' performance in these games will not only impact their conference standing but also their national ranking and seeding in the NCAA tournament. A strong showing could position them as a serious contender for the national championship, while struggles could highlight areas needing improvement. The team's ability to navigate this challenging schedule will be a testament to their resilience and skill.
What's Next?
Kansas will begin their Big 12 schedule with a road game against UCF, followed by matches against TCU and West Virginia. These early games are seen as manageable, providing an opportunity for the Jayhawks to build momentum before facing tougher opponents like Iowa State and Arizona. The outcome of these games will be critical in setting the tone for the rest of the conference play. Coach Self and his team will need to maintain their offensive efficiency and improve their rebounding to succeed against the top-tier teams in the Big 12. The team's performance in these games will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as it could foreshadow their potential in the postseason.
