Jayhawks & Tigers Battle in Big-12 Showdown

The Kansas Jayhawks take on the Missouri Tigers in what has been a much anticipated match-up. Missou has struggled through their Big-12 conference schedule, but still maintains a number 15 ranking. They are an explosive team that can put up points in a hurry. Kansas relies on a methodical approach that usually ends up with high percentage shots. This one should be extremely competitive and potentially high scoring.

Kansas is the best shooting team in the country in terms of field goal percentage. They make more than half of their shots, but that’s mostly due to the tremendous forward duo of Markieff and Marcus Morris. These two are a force inside and can shoot the ball as well. They combine for 29.6 points, 15.6 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game. Josh Selby dictates the offense, but most of the plays are run through the Morris’.

Although the Jayhawks stats may not show it, they are a tremendously talented defensive team as well. However, they often lose enthusiasm in the second half of game as they generally have a substantial lead by that point. They will need to stay focused for 40 minutes on Monday when the Tigers come to town.

Missouri can light it up from the perimeter, and have several players that average in double figures in points this year. They currently put up an average of over 83 points per game which ranks them 7th in the nation. Their field goal percentage is respectable given that they rely heavily on jump shooting. This is the type of team that can be scary for opponents in the NCAA tournament, and I’m sure college basketball handicappers will take not of that when the brackets come out.

All three of Missouri’s starting guards put up over 10 points a game. Marcus Denmon leads the team with a 16.7 average, but Michael Dixon and Kim English also have the ability to light it up. Ricardo Ratliffe and Laurence Bowers match-up well with the Morris’. They are averaging 22.5 points, 12.5 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game which is right on par with the Jayhawks forwards.

This game will come down to whether or not the Kansas defense can stop Missouri’s guards from either shooting, getting to the basket or finding the open man. The Tigers are the 9th best team in the country in assists, and often take advantage of fast break opportunities.

This will be an exciting game, and could potentially affect the top seeding heading into the tournament as the Kansas is currently the #2 team in NCAA basketball. These teams will finish the regular season against one another on March 5th. If you’re a college basketball fanatic like myself, this is a must watch game!

Related posts:

1. Jayhawks take on Dangerous Texas A&M team Wednesday
2. Jayhawks fight for Number 1 against Oklahoma St
3. Texas vs. Kansas: Big-12 Conference Championship
4. NCAAB Big-12 Showdown: Kansas St Wildcats vs. Baylor Bears
5. Kansas looks to Wrap Up Big-12 Title vs. Oklahoma

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