Orange Crush: Kansas basketball player ratings from A to Z for Illinois loss

Tier 2: Baby Jays

4. Elmarko Jackson

Elmarko glided in for four points, two assists, and one rebound to go with one turnover. He showed his explosiveness in getting to the rim and finishing twice. He competed on defense but also showed he was a freshman by getting lost and beat back door several times. He got the start, playing 26 minutes, and was 2-for-4 from the field.

5. Nicolas Timberlake

Timberlake started his Jayhawk debut as the 6th man. He played 17 minutes and was 2-for-6 from the field, including 0-for-3 from 3-point range. The Towson transfer finished with four points, two rebounds, one assist, and two turnovers. He will knock down open threes, so I’m not concerned at all about that. He showed some solid athleticism and competed on D.

6. Dajuan Harris Jr.

Juan played 38 minutes and was inefficient from the field, going 2-for-7 while missing several layups, floaters, and his one wide-open 3-point look. Juan had six points, eight assists, three rebounds, and one turnover. He displayed his usual solid D, but he did get beat several times. Unfortunately, his offensive game does not appear to have improved from last year. For Kansas basketball to reach our goals, he will need to be more efficient and aggressive and will need to hit open shots when defenses are sagging off him.