The Kansas Jayhawks are champions once again.
For the second season in a row, Kansas has clinched at least a share of the Big 12 regular-season title following a 67-63 victory over Texas Tech Tuesday night at Allen Fieldhouse. The Jayhawks can become outright champs with a loss by Texas, which could happen on Wednesday at TCU or in Saturday’s finale between KU and UT in Austin.
With Tuesday’s win, Kansas has now secured a share of its 21st Big 12 crown and NCAA-leading 64th all-time conference regular-season title. It is also the 17th time the Jayhawks have won the league under Bill Self.
Much like Saturday’s performance against West Virginia, this victory certainly left a lot to be desired for a KU squad that has now won seven games in a row. The Jayhawks, who were a near-three possession favorite via the betting odds, came out sluggish and still somehow managed to grab a 40-31 lead at the break.
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Box score: Kansas 67, Texas Tech 63
Photo Gallery: Kansas basketball vs. Texas Tech
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Texas Tech, with its NCAA Tournament hopes officially on life alert, certainly didn’t give up. The Red Raiders came out with plenty of energy in the second half, and even cut the deficit to one score on multiple different occasions.
In the end, KU remained in front and relied on its tandem of Jalen Wilson and Kevin McCullar Jr. on senior night to finish the job. The two Kansas players, who were honored in the home finale, made many of the biggest plays during Tuesday’s victory.
Wilson delivered crucial baskets in the second half, with the offense running through him. He did so by driving both directions and posting his defender up when necessary. Wilson finished with 21 points for just his second 20-point performance over the last seven outings.
McCullar was nails on both ends of the floor once again. He scored early buckets and eventually finished in double figures, but his biggest contribution came on the defensive end. Late in the game, he made one of the biggest plays of the night with a decisive block.
kev said not on my watch ???? pic.twitter.com/fueMoFBLKI
— Kansas Men’s Basketball (@KUHoops) March 1, 2023
The two players then switched roles in the final minute to help Kansas hang on against Texas Tech.
After Wilson missed a jump shot, there was a scrum to grab the loose ball. McCullar ended up with the rock, and came through with a putback layup to give KU a 63-60 lead with 24.8 seconds to go. Wilson then notched the game-sealing block on the ensuing possession.
Wilson’s 21-point performance led all players in the game. Dajuan Harris Jr. added 16 points for KU, while McCullar finished with 14.
Kansas (25-5, 13-4 Big 12) will travel to Texas on Saturday.
