In a game that will be remembered for years to come, the Kansas Jayhawks pulled off a thrilling win in double overtime against the Texas Tech Red Raiders.
With their backs against the wall, the Jayhawks snagged the victory to advance to 17-2 overall and 6-1 in conference, remaining atop the Big 12.
Kansas maintained a lead for much of the game, growing the lead to 12 before Texas Tech went on a 17-5 run in the final six minutes to force overtime thanks to some empty KU offensive trips, missed free throws, turnovers, and Texas Tech heroics.
Things looked grim for Kansas when the Red Raiders led by five with just over a minute left in overtime. Ochai Agbaji then took over, scoring with 1:12 left to cut the TTU lead to three before both teams exchanged one-for-two trips at the line.
OCHAI AGBAJI = VERY GOOD AT 🏀 pic.twitter.com/nMjIIGFbmK
— Kansas Men’s Basketball (@KUHoops) January 25, 2022
With nine seconds remaining, Agbaji nailed a clutch three to force a second overtime.
With two minutes left in the second overtime, K.J. Adams grabbed a pair of key offensive rebounds, the second leading to a put-back to tie the game.
KU’s defense stepped up in the final two minutes, preventing the Red Raiders from scoring again while Jalen Wilson and Christian Braun made three free throws to secure the 94-91 victory.
The obvious MVP of the game was Agbaji, who staked his case for National Player of the Year and took over the game for Kansas. He finished with 37 points on 13-23 shooting and 7-12 from deep.
https://twitter.com/KUHoops/status/1486071541695758342?s=20
Braun added 15 points, David McCormack had 13, and Wilson recorded 9 and led KU with 11 rebounds.
With Mitch Lightfoot in foul trouble late, K.J. Adams played important minutes contributing 6 points, 4 rebounds, and strong defense. His play continues to earn a spot in Bill Self’s rotation.
Remy Martin finished with just 4 points, but played one of his best defensive games and his presence opened up the rest of the offense.
Give credit to Texas Tech who played an outstanding game. Bryson Williams put together a remarkable performance alongside strong showings from Kevin Obanor and Davion Warren.
Tough tests like this are what prepare teams for the big stage in March. Kansas next welcomes the Kentucky Wildcats to Allen Fieldhouse this Saturday at 5 p.m. CST.