The Kansas basketball team gets its most difficult challenge so far in this early season in the Duke Blue Devils in the annual Champions Classic.
Last season, Kansas defeated Duke 75-72, in what was the highlight of the Jayhawks’ season. It was the sixth win of seven KU had to launch the 2024-25 season, but Kansas peaked during the Duke game. KU won the game following Duke, but went just 14-13 the rest of the way.
Kansas needs to play a more consistent game than it did against North Carolina earlier in the season. In that matchup, the Jayhawks played well in the first half and went into the intermission with an eight-point cushion, before completely falling apart in the second half. The Tar Heels won easily, 87-74, but it really wasn’t that close.
The Jayhawks need to improve against Duke. UNC out-hustled KU the whole second half, and that cannot happen against the Blue Devils if Kansas hopes to compete.
Kansas vs Duke: When and where
The Jayhawks and the Blue Devils will clash in the Champions Classic on Tuesday, November 18, at 8 p.m. CT at the venerable Madison Square Garden.
Kansas vs Duke: Where to watch or stream
This game between the Kansas Jayhawks and the Duke Blue Devils will be aired on ESPN. You can stream the game on FuboTV or Disney+ with a subscription to either service.
Kansas vs Duke: Betting odds
With Peterson ruled out against Duke, Kansas is now a significant underdog, sitting at +10.5, according to BetMGM. The money lines are Kansas +475 and Duke -650. The over/under is 148.5. The oddsmakers clearly don't think KU can beat Duke without Peterson.
Projected Kansas starting lineup vs Duke
Darryn Petterson’s health has been an issue early this season. He's missed two games plus an exhibition, and it's all but certain he isn't playing against Duke either
- Bryson Tiller - 9.0 ppg
- Kohl Rosario - 8.8 ppg
- Melvin Council Jr. - 7.0 ppg
- Tre White - 12.0 ppg
- Flory Bidunga - 17.0 ppg
It's likely Tiller will start in Peterson's place, but Jackson has gotten the nod twice, and Jayden Dawson has shown some nice skills as well if Self wants to shake things up.
Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.
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