Kansas Basketball desperately needs Billy Preston
By Chris Taylor
The hot topic around Kansas Basketball is and has been the question of when we will see Billy Preston on the court. After two straight losses, the issue has grown even hotter.
The situation surrounding Billy Preston has become a proverbial thorn in the hind quarters of the Kansas Basketball program. What seemed to be a situation that would originally dissolve quickly, has lingered for half of Preston’s one and done freshman season.
Aside from the personal challenges facing Preston, the accountability for his absence from the Jayhawks historic season has been a tough pill to swallow for fans much of the season. Especially with every game that passes without his participation.
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Speculation aside, the truth is that the Jayhawks need Preston. He is undoubtedly an important ingredient in the chase for 14 straight conference championships. Bill Self had envisioned Preston being on the court before the season started.
One of the biggest holes in the Jayhawks scheme is that they lack an inside-out game. Udoka Azubuike is no doubt a force inside, but the ball rarely flows when he touches the ball. Especially when you compare to the ball movement on the perimeter.
Both of the defeats that Kansas has been dealt would have had a different outcome with Billy Preston inside along with Udoka. The proof is in the footage of the exhibition game against Pittsburgh State, seen below.
Yes, he has worn the uniform
The game plan changes with Preston in the game. More opportunities for an open shot and for plays to develop. The zone defenses that the Jayhawks have had trouble with can be defeated with a good inside-out game. So if you have found yourself wondering what difference he could make, the answer is he makes a huge difference. He’s an animated, emotional player, that appears to be a great team player.
He gets just as excited and pumped up when his teammates make a big play as if he made his own. That unselfishness along with his pure talent makes for a dangerous combination.
The fear of Preston becoming another Cliff Alexander for Kansas is warranted of course. He is still an unknown, with a dark cloud hanging over him. He was a very sought after recruit before committing to Kansas Basketball. Fans need to remember just how valuable this kid is.
The popular guess is that we will now see Preston once the second semester starts, which means he will be available for the Big 12 gauntlet that awaits the Jayhawks. Chances are Bill Self will have a few more grey hairs sprout up during conference play. Kansas Basketball has a larger target on their back than usual, which is always a big target anyhow.
Next: Top one and done's at KU
Here’s hoping a quick return for Preston as he and others such as Sam Cunliffe make their season debuts with a squad that needs the depth and talent to persevere. Silvio De Sousa could make the jump from high school as well if his SAT scores qualify him, that news should come early next week at the latest.