three takeaways from ku basketball's win over oakland

Seth Abraham

less than a minute read

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17-11-2024

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The Kansas Jayhawks secured a convincing victory over the Oakland Golden Grizzlies, showcasing their strengths and highlighting areas for continued improvement. While the final score might suggest a straightforward win, a closer look reveals several key takeaways.

1. Dominant Inside Presence:

The Jayhawks’ success hinged significantly on their commanding performance in the paint. Superior size and strength allowed them to consistently secure rebounds, score on second-chance opportunities, and deter Oakland's offensive efforts. This dominance translated directly into points and prevented Oakland from establishing any consistent offensive rhythm. The Jayhawks' ability to control the boards was a pivotal factor in dictating the tempo and flow of the game. This suggests a continued focus on inside play will be crucial for future success.

2. Balanced Scoring Attack:

Unlike some games where scoring might be concentrated on a few key players, this victory showcased a more balanced offensive attack. Multiple Jayhawks contributed significantly to the final score, demonstrating depth and reducing reliance on any single player to carry the team. This distribution of scoring makes the Jayhawks a more difficult team to defend, as opponents can't simply focus their defensive efforts on one or two players. This balanced attack is a promising sign for the team's overall offensive capabilities.

3. Defensive Improvements Needed:

Despite the victory, the Jayhawks' defensive performance wasn't flawless. While they effectively controlled the paint, there were moments where Oakland found success penetrating the perimeter defense. This highlights an area that requires attention and improvement. As the Jayhawks face tougher opponents, tightening up their perimeter defense will be essential to consistently limit scoring opportunities and maintain control of games. Further refinement of defensive strategies and execution will be critical for postseason success.

In conclusion, the win over Oakland provides valuable insights into the Kansas Jayhawks' strengths and weaknesses. Their inside dominance and balanced scoring were key to victory, while defensive consistency remains a focus for future improvement. The team's performance suggests a promising season, but continued work and refinement will be necessary to achieve their ultimate goals.