Kansas' NCAA Tournament Journey: Early Exit or Surprise Run?

0:00On March 18, Kansas earned the number 4 seed in the East region of the NCAA Tournament and faces California Baptist on Friday night in San Diego. The J-Hogs hoped to build on their 2022 national title, but they have not advanced past the first weekend since then. A first round win would set up a second round matchup against the winner of number 5 St. John's and number 12 Northern Iowa. From there, a sweet 16-clash with top seed duke could be next if Kansas advances. Staff riders at Kansas J-Hogs on SI shared their predictions with most expecting an early exit. The team showed promise with an 8-game win streak earlier, including a victory over unbeaten Arizona, but stumbled late in the regular season. Nick Shepkowski sees a second round loss to St. John's, while Josh Showman and P-Futuck predict a sweet 16-defeat to duke. Jack Ankeny also picks a round of 32 exit against the red storm, citing size mismatches and defensive challenges.

1:00Even so, the big 12 grind might toughen them up for a surprise run, especially if St. John's falters against Northern Iowa's grit. Kansas looks ready to prove the doubters wrong starting Friday.