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Originally published March 16, 2008 at 02:04p.m., updated March 16, 2008 at 04:18p.m.

KU wins third straight Big 12 Tourney, knocks off Texas 84-74

By Ryan Greene

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Final: KU defeats Texas 84-74

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - In what was by far the most entertaining and hard-fought game of the Big 12 Tournament, KU outlasted Texas 84-74, claiming the Jayhawks third straight league tourney crown.

All three have come by beating the Longhorns, and Sunday's victory was fueled by a career-high 30 points from Mario Chalmers, coming just 24 hours after he was limited to four points in a semifinal win over Texas A&M. Chalmers did so on 8-of-12 three-point shooting, while Brandon Rush, who stroked five treys a day earlier, was 6-of-9 from deep, finishing with 19 points.

Darrell Arthur also answered the offensive bell, too, scoring 16 points. KU heads into the NCAA Tournament with a 31-3 record, and will learn its destination for sure Sunday evening. The most likely opening weekend stop is Omaha, Neb., to play Thursday and potentially Saturday.

D.J. Augustin scored 20 points to lead Texas, but notched just two in the second half. Justin Mason scored 17, A.J. Abrams 15 and Damion James 13.

For more on this story, including full postgame coverage, log back onto KUSports.com.

:40.1, second half KU leads 78-73

Mario Chalmers missed a three against Texas' 2-3 zone out of the timeout, but Brandon Rush collected the offensive board. Darrell Arthur then missed a mid-range jumper, giving Texas an opportunity to re-capture the lead.

Damion James tried, but missed a jumper of his own, with KU coming back the other way, Sherron Collins then saved the possession, throwing a loose ball off of A.J. Abrams to save the possession before it went out of bounds. Mario Chalmers then buried a three to put KU up by four inside the final two minutes.

Justin Mason missed a two-point jumper, and Sherron Collins was then fouled by Damion James while chasing the rebound, getting him to the line.

Collins made both to put KU up by six with 1:25 to play, 77-71. Connor Atchley then got to free throw line and hit a pair, and Texas caught a break when Brandon Rush stepped over the boundary when inbounding the ball, giving it back to the 'Horns, KU leading 77-73 with 1:09 to go.

D.J. Augustin tried a three, but after it missed, Mario Chalmers collected a defensive board. Brandon Rush was fouled in transition, making one of two to put KU up by five. Chalmers then helped put things on ice with a steal of a D.J. Augustin pass, then getting to the line with :40.1 to play and KU up 78-73.

Chalmers hit both, putting KU up by seven and giving him 30 points and KU a seven-point lead.

3:35, second half UT leads 72-71

Sasha Kaun hit one of two free throws out of the timeout for KU, but A.J. Abrams answered back with two more to give Texas a 69-65 run and bump his point total on the day to 15. Kaun then missed two free throws on another opportunity, but Abrams couldn't build on the Texas lead, airing a three-pointer from the right wing.

Darrell Arthur answered the Texas buckets with a two on a big dunk slashing to the hoop. Then, after a Damion James miss, Sherron Collins punched home his first three-ball of the day on a feed from Brandon Rush, putting KU on top again at 70-69.

Darnell Jackson got a bonus trip to the line after a foul inside on Justin Mason, but missed the front end. Mason responded with two in the paint, giving him 16 and putting Texas again ahead by one. Darrell Arthur swung the lead back with a free throw line jumper.

7:40, second half UT leads 67-64

Justin Mason swished two free throws after the full timeout, and Darnell Jackson hit one of two on the other end, keeping KU up by five. D.J. Augustin tried to respond off a drive inside, but it fell off the rim. Brandon Rush then hit his sixth three of the day, giving him 18 points and forcing a primal scream from the junior as he ran back up the floor.

Augustin hit two free throws for the Longhorns off a foul on Russell Robinson, and then A.J. Abrams cashed a three to pull Texas to within three at 64-61. Damion James then tied it up with a three of his own from the right wing, giving hm 13 points on the day.

Chalmers then had a runner off the glass rim out and James collected the board, making Chalmers 0-for-2 since re-entering the game. A.J. Abrams then knocked home another trey, putting Texas on top 67-64.

11:16, second half KU leads 60-54

Mario Chalmers cashed his first three of the second half out of the timeout, and Texas tried to answer back with three looks from Connor Atchley and A.J. Abrams, but Sasha Kaun ultimately came up with a much-sought after defensive board with KU up 50-49.

Chalmers' hits kept coming, as he put home a straight-on three-pointer to give him 23 points on the afternoon. D.J. Augustin tried to answer back with a two on the baseline but couldn't hit, giving KU a chance to extend its four-point lead.

A.J. Abrams then hit a three off of the right wing, but Chalmers skied in for two off the glass. Connor Atchley came back with a baseline two, cutting it again to a one-point game.

Darnell Jackson then got to the line for KU and scored his first two points of the day, putting KU up 57-54. Brandon Rush made it a six-point game off an Augustin miss, taking a feed in transition from Sherron Collins to connect on a three, giving him 15 points - all from the outside.

15:48, second half, UT leads 49-47

A.J. Abrams dropped in two on a dribble-drive on the first possession of the second half, then Brandon Rush was blocked by Connor Atchley when doing the same on the other end. Abrams tried to extend KU's lead with a three but was short, though KU turned it right back over with an outlet pass for Russell Robinson thrown too far by Mario Chalmers.

Texas turned it over in return, but Mario Chalmers three attempt rattled out. Rush then blocked a D.J. Augustin try inside and rebounded an Abrams floater miss.

The offensive struggles continued as the teams traded misses for the next couple of possessions, and Atchley finally broke it by hitting one of two free throws. Darrell Arthur stroked two free throws, which went as the final points before the first TV timeout of the half. Texas went into it up 49-47.

Halftime, UT leads 46-45

Damion James hit a three up top for Texas out of the timeout, and after Brandon Rush missed one, D.J. Augustin swished one against a lax Jayhawk perimeter defense. Chalmers, after hearing an earful out of a timeout, swished a three, but Damion James hit another mid-range jumper, giving him 10 points and Texas a 46-45 halftime lead.

D.J. Augustin has a game-high 18 points at the break, while Justin Mason's early scoring helped Texas stay above water and set up a 14-0 run. Mario Chalmers scored 17 for KU, while Brandon Rush combined with him to hit eight first half three-pointers.

7:33, first half UT leads 27-26.

Connor Atchley took Cole Aldrich off the wing out of the timeout and hit a running floater which pulled Texas to within a point at 21-20, and Aldrich was then called for a foul on the offensive end. D.J. Augustin then extended Texas' run with a layup inside, and then a Damion James mid-range jumper pushed Texas ahead 24-21.

KU called a quick timeout, but then missed an opportunity to score in response and D.J. Augustin stroked a three from atop the key. Sasha Kaun finally ended Texas' run with a dunk while drawing contact underneath. His free throw pulled Kansas to within three at 27-24.

Mario Chalmers scored after A.J. Abrams couldn't capitalize on a fast break opportunity, running a give-and-go in transition to pull KU within one, 27-26, with 7:33 to play before halftime.

10:55, first half KU leads 21-18

Mario Chalmers hit his second three-pointer of the game after the TV timeout, and Justin Mason charged back for Texas with a tough two on traffic. KU answered with crisp ball movement, resulting in Sasha Kaun taking a backdoor feed and slamming one home from Darrell Arthur.

Damion James tried to respond with a three, but after Kaun took down the defensive carom, Brandon Rush stroked his first three of the game. D.J. Augustin cashed a longball after a Texas timeout, but Rush came back again with another one, keeping KU ahead by eight points at 21-13.

A.J. Abrams answered with a tip-in off a Justin Mason miss after Mason stole a Brandon Rush pass. Mason then stroked a three to follow a KU miss, pulling Texas to within three with 10:55 to play in the first half, 21-18.

Mario Chalmers controlled the game's opening tip, and off a screen, Texas' Damion James was called for a foul just moments into the game. Mario Chalmers ended up hitting a three atop the key for KU on the opening possession.

James answered with a three on a feed from Justin Mason in return, and Texas then forced KU into a turnover on an errant entry pass to the interior.

Mason then canned a two on the baseline for the Longhorns, and KU again turned it over, this time with an entry pass going off Jackson's fingers.

D.J. Augustin and Darrell Arthur then exchanged inside misses, and Mason answered with another Texas three, giving the Longhorns an 8-3 edge nearly three minutes in.

Arthur scored his first points of the game off the glass on KU's next possession, and after a Justin Mason layup was blocked from behind by Brandon Rush, two Sasha Kaun layups made it a one-point game at 8-7.

KU then cranked up the defensive pressure in forcing Texas into a shot clock violation, but the Jayhawks turned it over as Russell Robinson tried to save a loose ball from going out of bounds on the other end.

Arthur hit another turnaround for KU after an Alexis Wangmene miss, and Arthur scored again on a long outlet pass to follow a Conor Atchley three miss. He took the longball and slammed it home over Atchley, putting KU ahead 10-8 heading into the game's first full break.

Pregame KANSAS CITY - For the third straight season, the Big 12 Tournament will concluded with a matchup of Texas vs. Kansas. This year, some more bragging rights between the budding rivals are at stake, as the two Top-10 teams finished the regular season tied atop the league standings, both at 13-3. Texas won the annual winter meeting in Austin, 72-69, on Feb. 11. The Longhorns won despite stud point guard D.J. Augustin going just 1-of-11 from the floor. The difference-maker in that meeting was sophomore forward Damion James, who erupted for 12 points and 13 rebounds in the second half alone after spending much of the game's first 20 minutes on the bench in foul trouble. The Jayhawks got the big second half they needed Saturday after three so-so halves in league tournament play, ultimately ousting Texas A&M 77-71. UT is coming off a 77-49 slashing of rival Oklahoma, in which junior guard A.J. Abrams scored 26 points, including connecting on seven three-pointers. Coming in hot for KU is Brandon Rush, who Saturday on 9-of-13 shooting scored a career-high 28 points. His offense helped overshadow the struggles of Darrell Arthur, who has scored just 13 points in two games so far this weekend in Kansas City. This marks the sixth meeting between the two schools in the past three years, with KU currently holding a 3-2 edge in that span. KU is in its road blue uniforms, with Texas wearing its home whites. Tip-off is set for just after 2 p.m.

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Comments

melrank (anonymous) says...

Let's go Hawks!

March 16, 2008 at 2:14 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

Here's the 1st of 7!

Rock Chalk Jayhawk!

March 16, 2008 at 2:15 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

We need to take care of the ball better. Too many careless turnovers so far.

March 16, 2008 at 2:23 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

I'll take it so far.

March 16, 2008 at 2:25 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

I miss Erin.

March 16, 2008 at 2:26 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

DueFan (anonymous) says...

It's 2:25 CDT and ESPN has stupid nascar on ..what's going on?

March 16, 2008 at 2:27 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Yesssssss!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 2:28 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Due - you got Nascar? Ut-oh.

March 16, 2008 at 2:29 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

DueFan - Game is blocked in Big XII markets. Unless you have ESPN Fullcourt you'll have to settle for the radio feed:

Try www.lazer.com

or

www.610sports.com

March 16, 2008 at 2:29 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Brandon you are playing like the man!

March 16, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Is there some unwritten rule that a nobody has to have a career game against us in big games? Wake up Mason.

March 16, 2008 at 2:33 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

I agree mel. He's playing aggressively and with a sense of urgency knowing his collegiate career is coming to a close. Good sign for us! Keep feeding him the ball off of ball screens or when the D collapses on our bigs.

March 16, 2008 at 2:34 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

See earlier post. We have to win the rebound war and we'll be in good shape. Hustle, energy, desire - key to rebounding.

Let's go Hawks.

March 16, 2008 at 2:43 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

WOW! Rush and Chalmers lighting it up!

March 16, 2008 at 2:47 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Holy cow. This is the most unbelievable shooting display I've seen in a long time.

March 16, 2008 at 2:48 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

Damn, some lights out shooting!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 2:51 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

Somebody punch Augustin in the crotch!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 2:52 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

CaramelMacchMan (anonymous) says...

"Sherron Collins is like a caffeinated drink for Kansas"
- Fran Fraschilla

March 16, 2008 at 2:54 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Welcome ATL - amen.

March 16, 2008 at 2:54 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Ladies and Gentlemen, you'll never see a better half of basketball anywhere, at any level, anytime.

Wow.

March 16, 2008 at 2:58 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

um....speechless!

March 16, 2008 at 2:59 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

frompekka2sasha (anonymous) says...

What about 1988's 1st half against OU? I thought that was even better than today.

March 16, 2008 at 3:04 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

I feel like I'm watching my kids battle on Playstation 3.

March 16, 2008 at 3:06 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

frompekka2sasha (anonymous) says...

...and they have all of the "cheat" codes!!

March 16, 2008 at 3:09 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Hmmmm - tough call. Nice point.

A good omen, maybe?

March 16, 2008 at 3:10 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

Anyone doubt this game is going to the wire? It definitely has that feel. Therefore we need to take better care of the ball 2nd half. KU has 7 turnovers to TX's 2. Every possession counts!

Atchley the only player in foul trouble (3) so do they go to man D or stay with the zone?

March 16, 2008 at 3:15 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

make that 8 turnovers...

March 16, 2008 at 3:17 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Does he have 2 or 3. They keep saying 2 on the tv.

March 16, 2008 at 3:18 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Notice the dribble penetration almost every possession. Barnes has changed it up.

March 16, 2008 at 3:19 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

mel - stats compliments of:

http://www.sportsline.com/collegebask...

Not always accurate so he could have 2. I just heard Ron Franklin say 2 as well.

March 16, 2008 at 3:20 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

I had the same thing on foxsports. 3 fouls.

March 16, 2008 at 3:21 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rcaltrider (anonymous) says...

Both of these teams look like they should be a #1 seed. The moron on ESPN trying to make a case for Tennessee being the #1 if KU wins. Give me a break. Both of these teams are better than both Tennessee and Memphis.

I don't see both teams being able to keep shooting at this pace from the outside which is good for KU since they have the better inside scoring ability. Augusine is streaky and will fall off in the second half. Hopefully Atchley doesn't catch fire. I'm going to say, 86-79 Kansas.

March 16, 2008 at 3:22 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

He's not playing like he has 3. The refs sure don't want to give him another one, either.

March 16, 2008 at 3:22 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

RC - bold prediction.

OK, I'll play, too.

KU 83-79. In honor of the previously posted omen.

March 16, 2008 at 3:24 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

If it turns into a game of attrition then KU has a BIG advantage. Refs probably realize this too.

Let's just hope the calls dont become bush league like we've witnessed so much lately.

March 16, 2008 at 3:25 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

frompekka2sasha (anonymous) says...

Atchley has two fouls. He definitely fouled Arthur but they gave it to Augustin.

March 16, 2008 at 3:25 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rcaltrider (anonymous) says...

Can you please call the moving screen fouls on Atchley?!! He's doing it every possession!!

March 16, 2008 at 3:26 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Who says Brandon isn't a "heady" player :)

March 16, 2008 at 3:26 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rcaltrider (anonymous) says...

How did Texas "out-tough" Kansas on that possession? Kansas came away with the ball.

March 16, 2008 at 3:28 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Super Mario is unconscious.

March 16, 2008 at 3:28 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

mel - I have to one up one of your earlier statements:

chalmers is playing like the man! YEAH! 7 3 pointers so far in the game. WOW!

March 16, 2008 at 3:28 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

frompekka2sasha (anonymous) says...

Careful melrank- Hank Booth called him Super Mario and he no longer has a job.

March 16, 2008 at 3:29 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Sorry for the ignorance.

Who's Hank Booth?

March 16, 2008 at 3:32 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

C'mon NH, get out on the limb with us and give us a prediction.

March 16, 2008 at 3:33 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rcaltrider (anonymous) says...

Horrible foul call on Collins. Basketball should take a cue from hockey and call a foul on a player who flops to get a foul call. That would cut down on a lot of the acting crap. Of course that would require the refs to be smart enough to pick up on the flops and acting jobs and they don't seem to be able to figure that out.

March 16, 2008 at 3:33 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

The jazz guy at the local station, I believe.

March 16, 2008 at 3:34 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

frompekka2sasha (anonymous) says...

He was the Public Address announcer at KU. He lost his job but it really wasn't because of the Super Mario deal. Self told him not to announce his name that way because he hadn't "earned" that title.

March 16, 2008 at 3:35 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

BCRavenJHawkfan (anonymous) says...

Oh baby!
Game on. We have got some men stepping up in this one. Like to see little better locking down on defense.

March 16, 2008 at 3:35 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

KU 85 Tex 80

March 16, 2008 at 3:36 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

He's earned it today.

March 16, 2008 at 3:36 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

frompekka2sasha (anonymous) says...

BC- I'm not sure how to defend them. It looks to be nearly impossible.

March 16, 2008 at 3:37 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Was there any doubt on that Rush 3 from the corner?

March 16, 2008 at 3:38 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

They are down to 43% from the field. Keep playing D, keep rebounding, and stop putting them on the line.

March 16, 2008 at 3:39 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rcaltrider (anonymous) says...

moving screens are illegle!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 3:41 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

OK, frompekka, you're right. &*^%#$%&

March 16, 2008 at 3:42 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

Man, an 8-point lead evaporates just like that!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 3:42 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rcaltrider (anonymous) says...

I hate Texas!!

March 16, 2008 at 3:43 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

frompekka2sasha (anonymous) says...

I think we should play zone even though they are shooting lights out. We just keep getting caught running around trying to find our defensive assignment. Maybe not, though, because we were in their face the last couple of 3's! FrUsTraTiNg!#@%

March 16, 2008 at 3:44 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

I don't know about the zone. Percentages say overwhelmingly that they can't keep shooting like this. What scares me about a zone is the difficulty rebounding in it.

March 16, 2008 at 3:47 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

Why can't Kaun FINISH????

March 16, 2008 at 3:49 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Sasha has to put those in the hole and make those FTs.

March 16, 2008 at 3:49 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rcaltrider (anonymous) says...

Get Kaun out or they will keep fouling him!!

March 16, 2008 at 3:50 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

rebounding, baby!!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 3:51 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

Come on, men...finish it!!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 3:52 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

frompekka2sasha (anonymous) says...

It will come down to foul shooting now boys. I'm scared. Hold me.

March 16, 2008 at 3:52 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rcaltrider (anonymous) says...

FT shooting still the downfall!!

March 16, 2008 at 3:54 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

BCRavenJHawkfan (anonymous) says...

Free Throws, could be our undoing or our savior.

March 16, 2008 at 3:55 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

LOL

March 16, 2008 at 3:55 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

Make some plays!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 3:55 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

Every possession counts. Take care of the ball and take GOOD shots.

March 16, 2008 at 3:55 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

frompekka2sasha (anonymous) says...

My girlfriend just called me a "not-so-nice" word for that last post. Especially because I don't want her to hold me right now. I'm sweating bullets and my heartbeat is accelerating...

March 16, 2008 at 3:56 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

Man, it looked like DJ thought it was a two-shot foul....he made no attempt to rebound.

March 16, 2008 at 3:56 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

God bless you, a girlfriend who watches the game with you, follows your posts, and wants to hold you.

I'm sweating for you :)

March 16, 2008 at 3:57 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

BCRavenJHawkfan (anonymous) says...

Tiger has his hands full as well in Arnie's tourney.

March 16, 2008 at 3:58 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

frompekka2sasha (anonymous) says...

It's important to spend "quality" time together.

March 16, 2008 at 3:58 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

Sloppy oop pass by Sherron but WOW what a hustle play to redeem himself!

March 16, 2008 at 4 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

Go Collins!!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 4:01 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

rebounding baby!!!!!

c'mon BIll let's see that New Years Resolution in action.

March 16, 2008 at 4:01 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

and then another 3 by Mario. He's en fuego!

March 16, 2008 at 4:01 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

frompekka2sasha (anonymous) says...

One of the best defensive plays all year by Sherron. Mark it down that Self will bring that up in the postgame comments.

March 16, 2008 at 4:01 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rcaltrider (anonymous) says...

Come on boys, I have tickets to Detroit. Win this so I can watch you there!!

March 16, 2008 at 4:01 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

BCRavenJHawkfan (anonymous) says...

Collins is bringing it man.

March 16, 2008 at 4:02 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rcaltrider (anonymous) says...

WHAT?! How is that a foul?!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 4:02 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

frompekka2sasha (anonymous) says...

I have tickets to San Antonio!!

March 16, 2008 at 4:03 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

Foul shooting is going to be paramount this last minute.

March 16, 2008 at 4:03 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

That entire sequence sucked for us. Phantom foul on DJ when we got the rebound, two FTS, then a TO.

March 16, 2008 at 4:05 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rcaltrider (anonymous) says...

BULL S@#@$!!

March 16, 2008 at 4:05 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

Theutus (anonymous) says...

Why do the officials always try to take the game out of the players hands?

That stupid line call should be a no call unless he blatantly stepped across it, not if it's a "maybe he did" call.

March 16, 2008 at 4:07 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

Woo hoo hoo!!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 4:07 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

C'mon Brandon.

Give us two.

March 16, 2008 at 4:07 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

I get to get another t-shirt!!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 4:07 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

BCRavenJHawkfan (anonymous) says...

Super steal.

March 16, 2008 at 4:07 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Sorry, C'mon Mario.

Oh, you did.

Yes.

March 16, 2008 at 4:07 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rcaltrider (anonymous) says...

Come on frompekka, I live in Columbus, OH and never get to see the 'Hawks in person. Let me see them once :)

March 16, 2008 at 4:08 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

frompekka2sasha (anonymous) says...

rcaltrider- You get to see them advance to the F4 then I get to watch em play in it. It's all good.

March 16, 2008 at 4:08 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Do you have an extra ticket for your girlfriend?

March 16, 2008 at 4:10 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

frompekka2sasha (anonymous) says...

Uh.... no. That is a boy's trip that I take every year. I'll be there whether the Hawks meet me there or not.

March 16, 2008 at 4:10 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

This game should silence all the doubters out there (ie. Jimmy Dykes/Digger Phelps). This KU team is as legit as any of the other top teams in the nation. If we play like this for the next 6 games I really like our chances.

Rock Chalk Jayhawk! Let's dance!

March 16, 2008 at 4:11 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

rebounding and dare I say it, free throw shooting.

March 16, 2008 at 4:12 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

rooooccckkkk cccchhhaaaallllkkkk jjjaaaayyyyhhhaaawwwkkkk kkkkuuuuuu!

March 16, 2008 at 4:12 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

yes,

big 12 champs.

yes,

March 16, 2008 at 4:13 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

BCRavenJHawkfan (anonymous) says...

Collins gets my vote for Most Outstanding Player in this tourney!! Did not have the most points but he was so important down the stretch of several games.

March 16, 2008 at 4:13 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

That was awesome!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 4:15 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

bhann (anonymous) says...

3 straight Big 12 Tourney Champions!!

Great Job!!

Chalmers--Keep it going. Rush, back to back great games. And Collins, keep it going. We need to play Cole more. SK hurt us on the FT line.

Final 4 here we come!!

March 16, 2008 at 4:17 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

BCRavenJHawkfan (anonymous) says...

Finally, we beat a top 10 team and win a close one to boot.

March 16, 2008 at 4:17 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

RC - I say you win the prediction contest.

March 16, 2008 at 4:20 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

sevenyearhawk (anonymous) says...

beak 'em > hook 'em!!!

March 16, 2008 at 4:20 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rcaltrider (anonymous) says...

frompekka, yeah, you're right. I was thinking you were talking about the Regional in Dallas. Sounds good to me, I can watch them cut down the nets in Detroit and you can watch them cut them down in San Antonio!

March 16, 2008 at 4:20 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

#1 Seed? If not then somebody's getting paid...

There is no doubt that this team is a legitimate contender after seeing that performance.

March 16, 2008 at 4:24 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rcaltrider (anonymous) says...

melrank, yeah I guess so. I would have taken a one point lead, just get the one.

March 16, 2008 at 4:26 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Double AMEN on that post, NH.

When we play with THAT kind of energy, we are the best team in the Nation.

March 16, 2008 at 4:27 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rcaltrider (anonymous) says...

They have now avenged 2 of their 3 losses and if not for the OSU loss, this is the #1 overall seeded team. UNC and Kansas are the best two in the country. Hopefully they are on opposite sides of the bracket. I don't throw UCLA in there because I don't think they can score with Kansas and UNC and they should have a few more losses if not for horrible officiating in the Pac 10. And Memphis plays in a joke of a conference.

March 16, 2008 at 4:38 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

mariochalmersfan15 (anonymous) says...

Big 12 Champs For The 3rd Year In A Row!!!!! rock chalk jayhawk go ku!!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 4:43 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

klong (anonymous) says...

3 straight titles!!! Lookin' tough! The free throw shooting has become less of a worry, everyone but Kaun that is.

March 16, 2008 at 4:44 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

Kaun has to FINISH those close in plays to make teams pay for fouling him.

March 16, 2008 at 4:53 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

klong (anonymous) says...

jayhawkinatl- He is a senior. He is as good as he will ever be. I have voiced my opinion on him several times and I get attacked for it.

March 16, 2008 at 5 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

#1 Seed Midwest Region baby! Rock Chalk Jayhawk! Let's Dance!

March 16, 2008 at 5:03 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

BCRavenJHawkfan (anonymous) says...

There it is, it's official, #1 seed Midwest region.

March 16, 2008 at 5:03 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Carolina then UCLA for the championship.

This will be sweet to whip both these teams.

March 16, 2008 at 5:04 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

So, who is the #2 in our region?

Tennessee would seem like a good guess.

March 16, 2008 at 5:06 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

I would guess TN as well melrank. That final #1 was down to TN and KU.

March 16, 2008 at 5:07 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Could Texas get hosed and sent out West vs. UCLA?

March 16, 2008 at 5:08 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

What TN #2 out East?

March 16, 2008 at 5:11 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Man, they got screwed.

We're going to get Wisconsin or Texas as the 2.

March 16, 2008 at 5:12 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

BCRavenJHawkfan (anonymous) says...

Ooh, Tennesse slotted in the East, so much for the "S" curve.

March 16, 2008 at 5:12 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

halvhawk (anonymous) says...

im thinkin duke or georgetown

March 16, 2008 at 5:12 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

It's a good think we're not the committee. We'd still be in the conference room. Ha Ha.

March 16, 2008 at 5:16 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Good call halvhawk.

March 16, 2008 at 5:19 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

BCRavenJHawkfan (anonymous) says...

Good call halvhawk.
Georgetown is playing with a purpose. It will be a tough road.

March 16, 2008 at 5:20 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

NH_JHawk (anonymous) says...

wow...selection committee puts Georgetown as our #2

March 16, 2008 at 5:20 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

rockchalkjayhawk4ku11 (anonymous) says...

mario chalmers = beast

March 16, 2008 at 5:30 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Baylor? TA&M?

I wonder if Keegan is watching with interest?

March 16, 2008 at 5:30 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha.

Duke out West to face UCLA.

The seeding Gods are KU fans!!!

March 16, 2008 at 5:37 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

BCRavenJHawkfan (anonymous) says...

Let the madness begin!!!

March 16, 2008 at 5:39 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

klong (anonymous) says...

I like our chances!

March 16, 2008 at 5:47 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

melrank (anonymous) says...

There's no such thing as an easy road, but I think we got a really good draw.

Geez, Packer actually said some nice things about us and Seth said we are in the finals. Will miracles never cease?

Didn't we play Vanderbilt in 1988?

March 16, 2008 at 5:57 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

bhann (anonymous) says...

Great job by Chalmers and Rush and the rest of the team. That is what I am alking about! Bring home the NCAA Title--Don't settle for anything less.

When the shots wasn't their, we passed it out to the open players and we did a great job on the boards!!

Let's us get a few "floor burns" and get after it in the ncaa.

go hawks!!

March 16, 2008 at 7:17 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jkilgore (anonymous) says...

Great shooting, great coaching, great chemistry, great depth, great representators of Kansas basketball!!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 7:28 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

kushaw (anonymous) says...

Did anybody else see the play of the game? The play of the game was the terrible pass to Darnell Jackson that bounced off the backboard and Sherron chased it down and threw it off of Abrams out of bounds. That play right there sealed the deal for KU and I also believe their tournament hopes for a good run in the NCAA tournament. That 1 play shows how much "Hunger" and "Desire" this team wants to win and get to the Final Four. The only concern I have is that this team wants to get to the Final Four and not win the national championship! We will see!

March 16, 2008 at 7:36 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

Jayhawker21 (anonymous) says...

kushaw-
I saw that play, it was amazing!! i totally agree with all your points!!

March 16, 2008 at 7:42 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jaybate (anonymous) says...

Clemson, Wisconsin, Georgetown, plus K-State.

KU gets nightmare bracket.

Every other other bracket has only one serious threat.

KU's bracket has 3 serious Final Four threats plus an arch rival.

glass analysis:

Half empty: KU got screwed macro on the seedings. Anyone who likes our bracket hasn't seen UW, Clemson, or Georgetown play late in the season.

Half full: KU has an opportunity to become one of the great teams in NCAA history by beating KSU, Clemson, and either UW or Georgetown even get to the Final Four; then beating UCLA and finally Memphis for the title. This would easily be the toughest six wins in the last 10 years of the tournament, maybe ever.

KU can play one suboptimal game vs. Portland State. From then on, KU has to play the best six games its played all year.

Portland State: easy win, if no one disappears and we dn't shoot 20% from trey.

KU vs. KSU: battle an archrival with the true Player of the Year and a psycho coach...a team that has roughted us up both time we've played them and that worked us over once...as a tune-up game.

KU vs. Clemson: Nolan Richardson's 40 Minutes of Hell updated and packed in South Carolina grits. Our guys first look at a serious full court team this year and they are animals, if you saw them play UNC.

KU vs. UW-Madison: The most underrated team of all this year playing the most bone crunching brand of butcher ball there is, which will almost certainly result in an injury to one of our starters.

Or...

KU vs. Georgetown: Year in and year out the only team playing as rough as UW is Georgetown and they have the nation's best 7 footer in Hibbert.

And this is BEFORE playing UCLA, which STARTS three bigs, plus a true two--thus exposing the only real chinks in our armor.

And then Memphis which seems to go ten deep in prison bodies and has a high scoring 6'7" two guard that 6'2" Mario Chalmers will have to guard and first round draft choice and super frosh Derrick Rose that RR, or Sherron will have to handle.

Our team faces a seemingly insurmountable task.

I believe they will do it.

Rooooooooooooock
Chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaalk
Jaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahawk
GO KU!!!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 7:47 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

Wisconsin totally got screwed!!!! They should have received a #2 seed instead of the Dukies.

March 16, 2008 at 7:50 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

Man, the 'Hawks had 26 FGs on 25 assists...remarkable!!!! Now, that's an unselfish t-e-a-m.

March 16, 2008 at 7:51 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jaybate (anonymous) says...

We shoot 60% from trey on 25 attempts and only beat Tayhaas by 10? Texas is going to march through their bracket like krap through a goose until Memphis.

Holy cow, Texas is tough. If they play a super game and catch Memphis on an off night, they will reach the final and I reckon they can take UNC, which means we would have to face them again...likely without another 60% from trey night. Whew!

March 16, 2008 at 7:56 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

I love Hubert and Jay...both picked us to win it all. Coach Knight has us in the championship game. Digger and Vitale both suck!!!!

March 16, 2008 at 8:01 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jayhawkinatl (anonymous) says...

Yep, jaybate...I'm banking on the 'Horns taking out Memphis, particularly since the Tigers can't hit FTs to save their lives.

March 16, 2008 at 8:02 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

SDSurferFan (anonymous) says...

Greatest day of the year!!!1

March 16, 2008 at 8:02 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

Chicago_JHawk (anonymous) says...

jaybate - what are you talking about? The KSU we'd face in rd 2 is Kent St. Kansas St wouldn't meet us until the regional final. Also, we'd get UNC in the Final 4, and then either UCLA or Memphis in the final - not both...

I will agree with you that the road isn't easy...but it's not the worst of the 1s. Memphis has a rough region, with Pitt and Texas in thgeir path.

March 16, 2008 at 8:09 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jrbill67 (anonymous) says...

Well, if the boys played with the kind of passion Arthur, Collins, & Chalmers played with today, they can take it all. After a lackluster game vs. Nebraska, a great half vs. A&M, and an entire game vs. Texas, they're getting the message. Mario took over and was a floor leader today. Rush showed up and delivered. Arthur ripped down rebounds and dunked with an aggressiveness I haven't seen. If they do this for 40 minutes, 6 times, they will be cutting down the nets in San Antonio.

March 16, 2008 at 8:22 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

kushaw (anonymous) says...

Jaybate: You must be having a bad day because I disagree with every assessment and statement you made in your last post. First of all, KU doesn't have to worry about Georgetown and Wisconsin. KU will only have to worry about 1 of the 2 teams. I will take Wisconsin any day of the week playing in the worthless Big 10. Yes, Bo Ryan is one heck of coach and usually plays in the 50's and 60's (Which is not a good sign), but athletically Wisconsin can not match up with KU. KU has too many Big's. As for Georgetown, They are certainly overrated in my opinion. Sure they have a 7 footer in Hibbert, but we have 4 big's to rotate off of Hibbert. Surely you watched Georgetown in the Big East Tournament slug their way to a second place finish and completely get dominated by a smaller quicker Pittsburg club. You want to tell me that Blair can match up with Hibbert and Darnell Jackson can't. Give me a break.

As for our path even before we get to Wisconsin or Georgetown. We will beat Portland St. so I'm not even going to do an analysis on them.

Kent St. is an extremely good team and I actually give them the edge over UNLV even though UNLV beat a very good BYU team. Again, Kent St and UNLV can not match up with KU.

Now for your so called assessment of Clemson. Yes, Clemson is a good team and I live in Charlotte, NC so I've seen them play many times and also in person on Friday at the ACC tournament. Clemson has too many mental lapses to make a run to the Elite 8. Clemson has no history or pedigree. I've seen too many times over the last couple of years when they play close games, they can not pull it together to come up with a big win. Everyone thinks the ACC is tough because of their so called RPI, but the ACC is down this year and UNC will completely exposed in this tournament. I don't expect UNC to make the Final Four let alone a mediocre Clemson squad give KU a game should they make it that far. Sure Clemson has Mays, Booker, Rivers, and Stitt, but their guards can't match up. I'm sorry I've seen Clemson play too many times this year and I'm not overly impressed. I've seen them fail too many times.

As for Vanderbilt, they have a good squd, but I have the Commodores losing to Siena in the first round. Yes, that's right I have picked Siena because if you haven't watched the Metro Atlantic Conference (MAAC) then you would know how good of team Siena has..................

March 16, 2008 at 8:52 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

kushaw (anonymous) says...

I could not have been more estactic about the draw KU has been paired with for this 2008 NCAA tournament. Georgetown, Wisconsin, Vanderbilt, and Clemson all have defieiciencies and I can not wait for KU to exploit them. I'm not at all worried about this draw.

You also have to understand that this bracket has a lot of potential for upsets with Siena, Davidson, Gonzaga, and even NOVA. I actually like the fact that we have to play some "Bigger Name" schools so we don't have any let downs. Jaybate, couldn't disagree with you more about KU's road to the Final Four.

March 16, 2008 at 8:53 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

kushaw (anonymous) says...

Here is my predictions

1stKu over Portland St
2ndKU over Kent State
1stKent State over UNLV

1stNOVA over Clemson
2ndNOVA over Siena
1stSiena over Vandy

1stUSC over K-State
2ndWisconsin over USC
1stWisconsin over Cal St.

1stDavidson over Gonzaga
2ndG-Town over Davidson
1stG-Town over UMBC

Continured.....................

March 16, 2008 at 9:11 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

kushaw (anonymous) says...

3rd KU over NOVA

3rd Wisconsin over G-Town

4th KU over Wisconsin

The bottom half of our bracket is very very tough, but again we will only have to face 1 of those teams. Jaybate, you say we have 3 final four teams in our Midwest Bracket, but again two of those teams are going to knock each other out of the running and pretty much the bottom half of our bracket is going to beat each other up. I couldn't have asked for anything more from our draw and our path to the Final Four.

March 16, 2008 at 9:15 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

ku_phog (anonymous) says...

Great win today jayhawks. If brandon and mario keep playing this way we will not get beat.

Rock Chalk Jayhawk

March 16, 2008 at 10:06 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

jaybate (anonymous) says...

Here's my revised assessment incorporating above takes.

First, change K-State to Kent State and things look a lot better.

Second, I still think Clemson, Wisconsin, and Georgetown are all capable of getting on a roll and going all the way. And I don't think any other bracket has 3 such teams to go along with the 1 seed. The best any other bracket has is two other threats IMHO.

Third, I know KU will only play either Wisconsin, or Georgetown, and not both, but the point is that upsets happen in the tourney to Final Four threats and so you want to be in a bracket with the least threats, so an upset can possibly give you an easier match up with a team that shot its wad just to get to you. The winner of the UW-Georgetown game WILL be a threat to win the championship. It won't have shot its wad. So: the probability of KU getting a break from championship threats is nonexistent in that contest. In turn, KU cannot have a down game against Clemson, or against the winner of UW-Georgetown, and still make it to the FF.

Above are my reasons for thinking KU got the toughest bracket.

But the underlying reason I'm most worried about our bracket is this: KU has shown a tendancy this season to need a second chance to figure out teams that pose problems they have not seen before. With these second chances, KU becomes unbeatable. Alas, the tourney does not allow second chances. I believe Clemson and the winner of the UW-Georgetown game will confront KU with styles of play KU has really not been exposed to. Two such exposures in a row will be very tough for KU to not need a second chance to adjust.

But do I still believe they can win it all?

Yes, unless they come out and lay a three point egg against Clemson, or the rest of their eventual opponents.

March 16, 2008 at 10:36 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

RockChalkNateHawk (anonymous) says...

I just want to say that we played just incredible today. I personally thought we played to our potential today. Super Mario you played absolutely outstanding today, hats off to you. Rush another superb performance today, we need you to build on these past two star performances to make some noise in the tourney. Arthur nice job staying out of foul trouble, and your contribution today was invaluable and much needed against texass. Collins, I just want to thank you for providing that spark we need, you are the spark of this team when we need it most. The rest of the team from D-Jax to Kaun, you played solid. What a win today against Texas, and once again Big 12 champs. All i can ask for now is that you play with that hunger you played with today in the tourney, if you do play with that hunger we are just unstoppable. Thanks for the great memories this year guys, and good luck in Omaha.

March 16, 2008 at 11:17 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

smitty33 (anonymous) says...

Jaybate,
You first said no bracket has 2 tough teams, now you change that to 3. You act like you know Georgetown and Wisconsin better than us. I think our bracket is fantastic. We should have had Tenn in our bracket, a much better team than inconsistent Georgetown. Our second round game is much better than UNC's. In case you didn't notice, the Big 10 sucked this year and Wisc is overrated. Clemson is tough, but what sweet 16 team isn't?
Downer Debbie Jaybate, I can already hear you saying, "I told you so" if we lose anytime in this tourney and dread reading how you will detail our weaknesses.
My advice to you... enjoy this team and our 31+ wins. We will be rebuilding next year. Take a Valium, have a beer, relax. Yes, we're beatable, but no more than anyone in this entire tourney.

Our bracket looks good, and I hope I haven't jinxed anyting by buying my tickets to Detroit tonight.
Rock CHalk!!!

March 16, 2008 at 11:50 p.m. ( | suggest removal )

ku_phog (anonymous) says...

Well said smitty. I would much rather play Georgetown over Tennessee. Tennessee has some great athletes and are much better offensively then Georgetown. If Hibbert is contained our guards should absolutely dominate this game.

Rock Chalk

March 17, 2008 at 2:48 a.m. ( | suggest removal )