Kansas basketball: Texas preview, how to watch

The Kansas basketball team opens defense of the Big 12 Conference title in Austin. Here is what you need to know for Friday’s game.

Bill Self’s Kansas basketball team is ranked #11 as they begin conference play. This is the earliest I can recall the Jayhawks started Big 12 play. Facing the ‘Horns on the road will be a difficult test. On the other hand, there will be a large crowd wearing Crimson and Blue to help.

The Jayhawks are one of only 8 division one teams with five players averaging in double figures in scoring. Texas has four players averaging 10 points or more through 12 games.  Sophomore guard Andrew Jones leads them in scoring at 15 points a game. He’s played in only 8 contests due to a wrist injury earlier this month.  On Thursday, the Longhorn coach said he hopes to have Jones available.

While Jones and 6-foot-9 forward Dylan Osetkowski lead the team in scoring, the player we all want to see is Mohamed Bamba. The Udoka Azubuike matchup against Bamba will be fun. Bamba scored a career high 17 points and blocked 6 shots in the ‘Horns December 22 win over Alabama. Jones did not play in that 16-point win but you know he wants to face the Jayhawks. In the Texas one point win over Tennessee State, Bamba scored only 4 points. Kansas beat the Tigers by 32.

Here is where to watch the Jayhawks play at Texas

Date: December 29

Time: 8p.m. CST

Location: Austin, Texas

Venue: Erwin Center

Television: ESPN2

Streaming: WatchESPN

Listen: Jayhawk Radio Network

Keys to Victory

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Udoka Azubuike has the strength and size to put pressure on Bamba. The Jayhawks need to get the ball inside and have the defense force some turnovers. The Longhorns are a young team. I expected an experienced Jayhawks squad led by Devonte Graham to run Texas out of the gym.