KU Basketball Overcomes Slow Start to Beat Davidson
After a slow start, the Jayhawks stormed back in the second half and defeated Davidson, 89-71. Here are my takeaways from the KU basketball win.
The frontcourt might be turning a corner.
After the distractions of the week, it was terrific for KU basketball fans to see Carlton Bragg back on the court. He didn’t disappoint either, scoring seven points and pulling down eight rebounds in 18 minutes. The sophomore appeared much more focused and ready to play than he had lately. If he keeps improving, look for Bragg to reclaim a starting role.
Landen Lucas had another good game, lending credence to the theory that he’s finally healthy. Lucas had eight points and eight rebounds in 21 minutes, including 4-6 from the floor. Lucas is still KU’s best rebounder, and provides a steadying presence on the floor. He guarded well too, holding Davidson big man Will Magarity to nine points and only four rebounds. It’s clear to me that Lucas should start at the five position moving forward.
The starting lineup is still in flux.
Beyond the incredible trio of Frank Mason, Devonte Graham, and Josh Jackson, it’s unclear to me who should start. Lucas at the five would be a good call for reasons we mentioned earlier. The other position is a mystery. KU has gone through three starters at that spot, Lagerald Vick, Carlton Bragg, and for the first time last night, Svi Mykhailiuk. Svi had a good night, scoring 13 points on 4-8 shooting (1-5 from three) in 33 minutes.
Svi’s ability to defend multiple positions (even some stretch 4’s) and offensive versatility is extremely valuable for KU basketball. His ability to slash adds another dimension to his already extensive offensive skillset. His size is an asset as well. When Kansas goes with four guards, they don’t lose a lot of size. Svi and Jackson are both 6’8, plenty of size for the wing and forward positions. With Jackson’s ability to do everything on a basketball court, KU presents a big matchup problem for nearly everyone in the country.
Has KU finally turned the corner in free throw shooting?
Before the Davidson game, KU basketball was near the bottom in free throw percentage, making under 60%. The Jayhawks made 17-24 from the stripe last night, close to a season best. In what ended up an 18-point game, free throws aren’t as important. However, in a close game in March, they’ll be crucial.
Based on the rotation that Bill Self is employing, the free throw numbers should continue to improve. Mason and Graham are good free throw shooters, and Jackson’s stroke is coming along. Lucas is a good shooter for a big man as well. Svi made 4-6 last night, and is a 65% career shooter. If free throw shooting becomes a strength for KU, there’s no game they can’t win.
Bottom line.
KU is still improving, and with the break coming up, they’ll have a chance to get much better still. The Jayhawks get one final tuneup before Big 12 play on Tuesday, where they travel to Las Vegas to take on the UNLV Rebels.
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