Kansas basketball: 3 keys for the Jayhawks to win the Maui Invitational

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CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – NOVEMBER 14: Hunter Dickinson #1 of the Kansas Jayhawks reacts during the game against the Kentucky Wildcats in the Champions Classic at the United Center on November 14, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

Kansas Basketball Key No. 2. Hunter Dickinson dominance

When March arrives, Kansas will go as far as Hunter Dickinson will lead them. That stands true in the Maui Invitational field against teams they could play if they make a deep tournament run.

Although Kentucky didn’t have two of their big men, Dickinson had a dominant 27-point, 21-rebound performance, becoming the first Jayhawk to post a 20-20 outing since Nick Collison. Keep in mind we’re only three games through the year. He is going to do some serious damage in his senior campaign.

For the year, he is averaging 22 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists on 65.7% shooting. He could match up with players among the likes of the reigning Wooden Award winner, the 7-foot-4 phenom Zach Edey, or Gonzaga’s Graham Ike and Donovan Clingan. Not only will Kansas need him to show out offensively, but he also must remain a strong presence in the paint against other skilled big men.

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