Kansas Basketball: Six takeaways from exhibition game vs Mizzou
By Kyle Hull
(Photo by Peter G. Aiken/Getty Images)
Kansas basketball is in full-swing as the team opened the season’s doors with a 93-87 victory against the Missouri Tigers.
Wow, that was fun. I, as well as many others, will not complain about college basketball in October, especially watching Kansas basketball knock off their Border War counterpart. The Jayhawks once again look like a confident team. From the talented backcourt, to the young prospects shining, the Jayhawks are again legitimate contenders come March Madness.
Fourteen straight Big 12 conference titles appears to be something we all can hope to see soon. I have faith in this team, and truly believe that 14 straight will happen this season (knock on wood).
The win at the Sprint Center resulted in the Jayhawks once again reigning supreme over the Tigers of Missouri. Let’s take a look at some takeaways from Sunday’s victory in Kansas City.
2017 is Devonte’ Graham’s team
The senior point guard showed in Sunday’s win that he is indeed the leader of the team. Devonte’ Graham clearly looked like the best player on the floor, and an early Wooden Award watch this season.
Graham started the game unconscious, as if he did not know how to miss. 3/3 from deep early on, Graham had 11 of the team’s 14 points a few minutes into the high tempo competition.
Graham had a game high 25 point, as well as earning a double-double with his ten rebounds to follow. Although it does not count towards his official stats, it was refreshing to see Graham ball out.
Double-double alert! @Devonte_Graham4 has 25 points and 10 rebounds vs. Mizzou with under a minute to play! #KUbball pic.twitter.com/TFCKidGjFU
— Kansas Men’s Basketball (@KUHoops) October 22, 2017
Losing the team anchor in Frank Mason last season, it was an instant fact that the following season would be led by Graham. He’s going to become what Mason was to this team last year.
A former Appalachian State commit, Graham’s status in Lawrence is almost unbelievable, as he is known as the BMOC ( big man on campus) at the University of Kansas. Head coach Bill Self found himself a gem, which many Jayhawk fans are just fine with.
From his spunky personality to his heart on the court, Graham will be a lifelong favorite to many, including myself. His one of a kind personality makes it hard to not like the kid, despite his success on the court.
This season will be run by Graham, and I have 100% faith he will get the Jayhawks far this season.