The Kansas basketball program is in unfamiliar territory with its in-state rival. While the Jayhawks still dominate the all-time series, the Wildcats have stunned Bill Self and Co. in consecutive seasons at home. With a crucial matchup coming this afternoon, KU might have caught red-hot Kansas State at the wrong time.
The Jayhawks will look to hand Jerome Tang his first loss against Kansas in Bramlage Coliseum. It is no secret that the crimson and blue have struggled in tough road environments this season, falling to Missouri, Creighton, and Baylor in games they had no business losing.
For Kansas to overcome that narrative, it must capitalize on its big win on Monday with another encouraging outing today. Strong performances from these three players could determine whether the Jayhawks come out of Manhattan victorious.
1. Hunter Dickinson
When the Jayhawks and Wildcats squared off last month, KSU was no match for the 7-foot-2 Dickinson. He scored 25 points on 12-for-19 shooting, his third-highest mark of the campaign. Kansas benefited greatly having Flory Bidunga playing alongside his All-American teammate down low.
Coach Tang attempted to guard Dickinson by putting David N'Guessan and Coleman Hawkins on him. While Hawkins is a very good defensive player, he simply did not have the size to stop Dickinson in the low block. Kansas should continue to play through its superstar today.