Kansas travels to Houston for a key Big 12 showdown on Monday at 9:00 PM ET. The Cougars have already secured the Big 12 regular-season title and hold a 25-4 overall record (17-1 in conference play), while the Jayhawks are 19-10 (10-8 Big 12) and looking for a much-needed win to improve their postseason positioning. Houston won the first meeting this season in a thrilling 92-86 double-overtime game on Jan. 25.
The Fertitta Center has been a fortress for Houston, where they hold a 15-1 home record. Kansas, on the other hand, has struggled on the road with a 4-7 mark. The Jayhawks are looking to bounce back after a tough 78-73 loss to Texas Tech, while Houston is riding an eight-game winning streak following a 73-64 win over Cincinnati.
Kansas Preview – Can the Jayhawks Overcome Road Struggles?
Kansas has been inconsistent in Big 12 play, especially in close games. The Jayhawks are just 1-3 in two-possession games in conference play. They had their chances against Texas Tech but fell short down the stretch. KJ Adams Jr. had a big night with 21 points and 13 rebounds, while Hunter Dickinson added 18 points and nine boards.
Hunter Dickinson remains the focal point of the Kansas offense, leading the team with 16.9 points and 9.8 rebounds per game. Point guard Dajuan Harris Jr. runs the offense efficiently, averaging seven assists per game. The Jayhawks’ offense ranks 128th nationally at 75.8 points per game, but they face a tough challenge against Houston’s elite defense.
Defensively, Kansas will need to step up against a Houston team that is efficient on both ends of the floor. The Jayhawks allow 75.8 points per game, which ranks outside the top 100, and they have struggled to contain top-tier Big 12 opponents. They will need a strong defensive effort to keep this game close.
Houston Preview – Dominance on Both Ends
Houston has been one of the most well-rounded teams in college basketball this season. The Cougars rank inside the top 10 in both offensive and defensive efficiency, making them a legitimate national title contender. Their defense has been their biggest strength, allowing just 58.0 points per game, the best mark in the country.
On offense, Houston is led by L.J. Cryer, who averages 14.8 points per game. The Cougars have four players averaging double figures, which gives them multiple scoring options. They do a great job of limiting turnovers and controlling the tempo, which makes them difficult to beat.
In the first matchup, Houston needed double overtime to secure a road win against Kansas. At home, the Cougars will be even tougher to beat. Their ability to control the pace and play strong defense gives them a clear edge in this matchup.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Hunter Dickinson vs Houston’s Interior Defense: Dickinson is Kansas’ best offensive weapon, but Houston has the top-ranked defense in the country. If the Cougars can slow him down, it will be tough for the Jayhawks to generate offense.
- Kansas’ Perimeter Defense vs L.J. Cryer: Cryer is Houston’s top scorer and a capable shooter. Kansas will need to limit his opportunities from beyond the arc.
- Turnover Battle: Houston ranks among the best in the nation in taking care of the ball, while Kansas has struggled with turnovers in key moments. If the Jayhawks give Houston extra possessions, this game could get out of hand.
Betting Prediction
Houston is the clear favorite, and for good reason. They have been dominant at home, while Kansas has struggled in road games. The Cougars’ defense is elite, and their balanced scoring attack makes them a difficult matchup for the Jayhawks.
Kansas kept the first game close at home, but on the road, this will be a much tougher challenge. Houston’s ability to control the pace and force Kansas into difficult shots should allow them to pull away in the second half. Expect Houston to cover the spread and the total to stay under due to their defensive dominance.
Final score prediction: Houston 74, Kansas 60. The Cougars should cover the spread, and the OVER is the best play.
Pick: Houston -9.5, OVER 132.5
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