The No. 7 Kansas Jayhawks (9-3, 0-1 Big 12) are looking to rebound from a disappointing start to conference play as they travel to face the UCF Knights (10-2, 1-0 Big 12).
This matchup marks an opportunity for Kansas to reset after suffering a rare league-opener loss at home to West Virginia, the first such setback for the Jayhawks in over 30 years.
Meanwhile, the Knights come into the game riding high after a thrilling 87-83 victory over Texas Tech on December 31, marking a strong start to their Big 12 campaign.
This will be a rematch of last season’s meeting, in which UCF secured an impressive win over Kansas in Orlando.
Kansas enters the game eager to shake off the sting of their recent loss. Key players, including All-American candidate Hunter Dickinson, and transfers AJ Storr and Rylan Griffen, will need to step up on both ends of the court.
The Jayhawks will look to re-establish their defensive intensity and control the tempo to avoid falling into UCF’s rhythm.
On the other hand, UCF is poised to build on their momentum. Guard play has been a strength for the Knights, with standout performances from Keyshawn Hall and Jordan Ivy-Curry leading the way.
