1. Marcus Morris: Telegraphed some ill-advised passes and had three turnovers, but otherwise had a big day punctuated by his three-pointer from the left corner when Michigan was threatening to get within single digits. Played with passion, made all eight of his free throws and finished with a career-high 23 points to go with 10 rebounds.
2. Sherron Collins: Was more responsible than anyone for KU’s collapse when KU was outscored 11-1 at the end of the first half. Collins committed three of his six turnovers during that stretch, when he was confused by Michigan switching from man-to-man to an extended 1-3-1 zone. But Collins also was the player most responsible for energizing KU’s intensity in getting off to a 41-20 lead. He also scored big buckets down the stretch and finished with 19 points.
3. Thomas Robinson: Played terrific all-around game in 12 minutes, showcasing his strength and quickness. If legendary Dodgers play-by-play man Vin Scully were in the house he would have recapped Robinson’s day by using one of his pet phrases: “Deuces are wild.” Robinson had two points, two rebounds, two assists and two blocked shots.
4. Xavier Henry: Had a rough shooting day, making just 2 of 8 three-pointers, and had just one rebound, but still has a way of scoring big buckets. Had 15 points and played strong defense against Michigan All-American candidate Manny Harris.
5. Brady Morningstar: Drew praise from the coach for being the best at penetrating the gaps of Michigan’s zone that baffled the team. Made his season debut a memorable one by playing excellent defense against Harris.
6. Tyrel Reed: The only thing soft about this kid is his shooting touch. He plays hard, chases the ball with purpose and elevates well for defensive boards.
7. Tyshawn Taylor: Continues to do a better job of taking care of the ball. Had five boards, five assists and just one turnover. Had just one bucket, but it was a dipsy-doodle highlight, a wiggly, scooping layup reminiscent of the great Earl Monroe, one of the coolest athletes in the history of sports.
8. Cole Aldrich: Coughing and gasping for breath, Aldrich played a sluggish game, finishing without a field goal for the first time since the national-title game. Once he shakes nagging bug, he’ll get up to speed in a hurry.
9. Markieff Morris: Fouled out in nine minutes and had only a point and a rebound to show for it.
The Keegan Ratings: Season Standings
1. Sherron Collins (81 points)
2. Xavier Henry (76 points)
3. Cole Aldrich (71 points)
4. Marcus Morris (65 points)
5. Markieff Morris (58 points)
6. Tyshawn Taylor (50 points)
7. Thomas Robinson (47 points)
8. Tyrel Reed (41 points)
9. Elijah Johnson (39 points)
10. C.J. Henry (11 points)
11. Brady Morningstar (6 points)
Notes: C.J. Henry, though he is a walk-on, will be included in the Keegan Ratings. Starting with conference play, we will keep both the overall and conference points for each player.
