In a thrilling matchup on Tuesday night in Las Vegas, the Kansas Jayhawks emerged victorious over the No. 11 Duke Blue Devils with a hard-fought 75-72 win. The game took a turn when Kansas’ star center Hunter Dickinson was ejected, forcing the team to rally together without their main point scorer. Despite the adversity, the Jayhawks managed to pull off the win with exceptional defensive efforts late in the game.
Freshman center Flory Bidunga stepped up in Dickinson’s absence, showcasing his skills with six points, eight rebounds, a block, and a steal. Other players like Dajuan Harris Jr. and AJ Storr also contributed significantly to the team’s success, showing resilience and unity in the face of challenges.
The game was a testament to the Jayhawks’ ability to win ugly and find a new identity as a team. Coach Bill Self praised his players for their toughness and determination, noting the positive impact of Dickinson’s absence in allowing other players like Bidunga and KJ Adams to shine. Despite the early season win, Self and Adams acknowledged that both teams will evolve as the season progresses, but the Jayhawks’ ability to win without their star player bodes well for future success.
The victory over a formidable opponent like Duke showcased the Jayhawks’ strength and resilience, setting the tone for an exciting season ahead. The team’s ability to come together in challenging circumstances and secure a hard-fought win will serve as a cornerstone for their future performances.
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Photo credit www2.kusports.com
