Kansas basketball: Big Jayhawk first half leads to win over Aggies
By Stan Unruh
Kansas Basketball had a big first half and held on to beat Texas A&M 79-68. The win is a great prelude to Monday’s Sunflower Showdown.
The Kansas basketball team did their part to uphold the honor of the conference in the annual Big12-SEC Showdown. The Jayhawks looked rested and ready with a fast start from Malik Newman and Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk hitting big 3 pointers. In addition, Udoka Azubuike had a big block in the opening seconds and the Jayhawks were on their way to victory.
Once again, Mykhailiuk was active and on fire. Just as he did Tuesday in Norman, the Senior led the Jayhawks with 24 points. Svi hit 6 three against the Sooners and 4 more against the Aggies. Svi also hustled his way 6 rebounds and handed out 3 assists.
As expected, the Jayhawks scored big on Aggie miscues. Bill Self’s guys scored 24 points on 14 Texas A&M turnovers. On the other hand, the Jayhawks only had 8 turnovers Saturday. One of those came on a shot clock violation in the final two seconds.
The first half was the difference in this victory. I wondered if the Jayhawks might have a hangover from Tuesday’s setback in Norman. Some wondered if they might look past the Aggies to the Monday Sunflower Showdown. Coach Self had them ready to run from the opening tip and they had a 7-point lead four minutes into the game.
Malik Newman had another strong showing. His 15 points, 7 rebounds and heads up defense has him ready for Monday’s Big 12 showdown in Manhattan. Marcus Garrett had an outstanding second half. The freshman made some outstand moves on defense and scored 9 points.
No free throws for Azubuike on Saturday
The Aggies challenged Azubuike in the paint from the beginning. The 7-foot sophomore was more than up the test. His 4 blocks and 6 rebounds were critically important against the bigger Aggies. He didn’t get sent to the free throw line but did earn a technical foul after a stare down following a huge dunk. He must eliminate that show off move.
Next: Jayhawks look great in new Power Index
Devonte Graham didn’t shoot the ball well. He’s struggled from the field the past two outings. Despite that, the senior continues to do so many other things to lead the team. His 5 rebounds, 7 assists and hustle on defense make up for any offense struggles. I believe he may be saving up for a big performance Monday.