Kansas vs Kansas State: Sunflower Showdown

0:00On March 6, Kansas faces Kansas State and Lawrence on Saturday, with the J-Hawks holding a 21-9 overall record and 11 wins and six losses in Big 12 play. They've dropped their last two games, falling 60-70 at Arizona State and getting routed 61-84 by Arizona. Still, Kansas ranks 20th in Kempom and boasts a top-9 national defensive efficiency. The J-Hawks rely on freshmen, big men, Bryce and Tiller, and Florey Bedanga of Front with seniors, Trey White and Melvin Council handling the wings and back court. Their offense sits around mid-pack nationally, but strong in conference three-point shooting at 34.8%. Defensively, they limit opponents inside and on the perimeter. Ranking second in Big 12 effective field goal percentage allowed, Kansas State has shown grit lately, winning just two of their last five, but competing hard under coach Driscoll. They pulled out a defensive win over West Virginia, without star P.J. Haggerty, though his return could spark things against Kansas's talent.

1:02The Wildcats have little to play for this late, but keep fighting. Analysts see Kansas bouncing back angry after those road losses, with Kempom projecting an 84-67 J-Hawks win. Pundits expect the closer battle than earlier meetings, maybe a 10-point Kansas victory, if the Wildcats top players heat up while the holes shake off. They're slump. This sunflower showdown could surprise if Kansas State's effort meets a distracted foe, setting up an intriguing finish to the regular season.