Quick grades for five aspects of KU’s 100-54 victory over Pittsburg State in the Jayhawks’ exhibition home opener Tuesday night at Allen Fieldhouse.
Offense: A
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If not for a little lull midway through the first half during which Pitt State delivered a 14-1 run and Kansas showed a batch of bad decision making, this grade probably would be higher. KU played fast, hit the glass, went inside to Udoka Azubuike often and looked like a group that has spent some time playing together.
Defense: A
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Thanks largely to their work on the glass, the KU defense put forth exactly the kind of effort you would expect in an exhibition game against an overmatched team. PSU shot just 31 for the game and did not reach double figures on the scoreboard until nearly 11 minutes had gone by.
Frontcourt: B+
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Udoka Azubuike labored more than he should have (even if his final numbers of 17 points and 14 rebounds doesn’t reflect that) but emphasized getting on the glass and Billy Preston (10 points on 5-of-5 shooting) flashed some pretty memorable moments, earning the start in the second half.
Backcourt: A
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Lightning quick and unselfish as all get-out, the KU guards were as good as head coach Bill Self has been saying they are, paving the way for the vicious blowout from the opening tip. Malik Newman, Svi Mykhailiuk and Lagerald Vick all reached double digits, while Devonte’ Graham added six points, six rebounds and five assists.
Bench: A
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Preston, Marcus Garrett and Mitch Lightfoot all showed a clear understanding of their roles, which can be rare this early in a season and can be incredibly valuable for a team that has as much talent as this Kansas team.
