Kansas basketball: Jayhawks conquer Wichita State in local showdown to round out nonconference play

Despite an 8-day rest between games, the Kansas basketball team didn't lose a step in its 86-67 win over in-state foe Wichita State.

The game was closely played through the first 15 minutes, but the Shockers never dug themselves out of their hole. They trailed by as many as 16 in the opening half and fell down by 28 halfway through the second.

Hunter Dickinson led the contest in scoring, dropping 22 and 13 rebounds on 10-of-17 shooting. He also added four assists and three steals. Fellow midseason All-American Kevin McCullar scored 20 points of his own, going a perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line on 5-of-14 shooting.

First-year guard Elmarko Jackson had the best outing of his collegiate career, scoring 12 and sinking two 3-pointers. He looked comfortable from mid-range and played his role flawlessly. Meanwhile, Towson transfer Nick Timberlake — who was terrific in the win over Yale last week — missed all five of his shot attempts.

KJ Adams nearly secured a double-double, recording 11 boards, scoring nine points, and assisting five baskets. Dajuan Harris scored six and had nine assists. Jamari McDowell made a tip-in shot and four three throws for a 6-point, 3-rebound effort. Finally, Johnny Furphy poured in seven points and three rebounds in his return from a one-game absence.

Wichita State outshot KU (42.4% to 41.9%) but hit just 4-of-20 tries from beyond the arc and 7-of-14 from the charity stripe. Dalen Ridgnal led Paul Mills' group in scoring with 13. Kansas basketball got its revenge when the Shockers defeated them in the NCAA Tournament in 2015.

Following the victory, the Jayhawks move to 12-1 and should maintain the No. 2 ranking heading into 2024. Kansas doesn't take the floor again until next year (Ha!) with a home matchup with TCU to open Big 12 play.