Our Conference! Kansas basketball player rankings from A to Z in win over Houston

Kansas basketball came into the game as a rare home underdog against Houston. Apparently, Vegas forgot that this is Coach Self and that this is Allen Fieldhouse.

The Jayhawks came out on fire against the No. 4 ranked Cougars and never looked back. Johnny Furphy continued his strong play and led the Jayhawks to a great first half. Johnny was 5-for-5 in the first half with 14 points.

What was widely considered as the best defense in America, KU had little issues with carving them up sharing the ball, and making shots. The Jayhawks shot a blistering 68% from deep in the first half on their way to a 43-28 halftime lead.

KU took it to Houston all day and was the tougher team, winning 50/50 balls and winning the rebounding battle 40 to 24. LJ Cryer's hot shooting kept the Cougars within striking distance but they never got closer than 10 points in the second half. The Jayhawks let Houston and everyone else know this is still our conference! The final score was 78-65.

Next up is a rivalry game in Allen Fieldhouse West, as the Jayhawks travel to Manhattan to take on the reeling Kansas State Wildcats, who have lost four straight.

Kansas Basketball Player Ratings vs. Houston

Tier 1: Big Jays

1. Johnny Furphy

Johnny came out in the first half with great energy leading the charge by knocking down shots and hitting the glass. The ceiling continues to rise as Johnny gets more and more comfortable for this team. Johnny had a great all-around game, finishing 6-for-7 from the field. Furphy finished with 17 points, eight rebounds, two assists, and no turnovers.

2. Hunter Dickinson

Hunter was a force down low and hit some big shots late to keep the Cougars at bay. His ability to be able to handle the ball at the top of the key and hit outside shots helps with the flow of our offense. Hunter's final stat line was 20 points, eight rebounds, four assists, one block, and three turnovers.

3. Kevin McCullar

Kevin returned after sitting out one game with an injury. Kevin looked like his old self and seemed to have more bounce than what we have watched in the last three games. Kev filled the stat sheet like he always does, battling on defense and for rebounds. McCullar had 17 points, seven rebounds, three assists, one steal, and five turnovers.

4. KJ Adams

KJ is a winner. Coming off some great praise from the Cougars coach Kelvin Sampson, KJ made his statement true. KJ and his effort and energy are a big part of this team. KJ did a great job facilitating the offense and bringing the ball up in transition. He finished with 10 points, four rebounds, seven assists, one steal, one block, and four turnovers.

5. Parker Braun

Parker came in and gave eight solid minutes. Braun was active on defense and rebounded the ball. On top of that, he came in and put the ball in the basket, knocking down a big 3-pointer in the second half. Braun finished with five points, three rebounds, one assist, and no turnovers. He continues to play his role well.