LAWRENCE — The 2023-24 season preparation for Kansas basketball continued with an exhibition game against Fort Hays State. The Jayhawks were looking to bounce back from a previous loss to Illinois and showcase their progress. Although there were areas for improvement, Kansas demonstrated growth and potential.
Leading up to the game, fans were curious about the starting lineup and how it would compare to the previous matchup against Illinois. This exhibition game was the team’s final opportunity to fine-tune their roster before the regular season began.
Inside Allen Fieldhouse, the following events unfolded:
Kansas game time, TV channel for today’s game against Fort Hays State
Tip-off: 7 p.m.
TV: Big 12 Now/ESPN+
Kansas basketball vs. Fort Hays State recap
FINAL: Kansas 73, Fort Hays State 55
Kansas leads 64-40 with 6:52 left in 2nd half
Throughout the second half, the Jayhawks struggled with decision-making, often settling for three-point attempts. However, despite their turnovers, Kansas maintained a comfortable lead of 24 points. Head coach Bill Self saw this as an opportunity for teaching moments and improvements before the regular season.
While the Jayhawks struggled with their perimeter shooting, their dominance inside the paint was evident. They outscored Fort Hays State 28-14 in the paint and maintained a 50% shooting percentage. Kansas continued to build a commanding lead.
Kansas leads 51-32 with 15:25 left in 2nd half
Kevin McCullar Jr. showcased his shooting skills, leading all scorers with 19 points, including four successful three-pointers. Hunter Dickinson contributed 11 points, and KJ Adams Jr. had 10. In contrast, Fort Hays State struggled to find its rhythm, with no player reaching double-digit scoring.
As halftime approached, Kansas maintained a dominant lead of 43-23. Their ability to capitalize on turnovers and their superior size made it difficult for Fort Hays State to mount a comeback. Head coach Bill Self strategically managed player rotations, balancing player development with avoiding unnecessary injuries.
HALFTIME: Kansas 43, Fort Hays State 23
Kansas leads 36-17 with 3:58 left in 1st half
Kansas demonstrated their ability to convert turnovers into points, while Fort Hays State struggled to do the same. As the Jayhawks showcased their depth, all scholarship players had a chance to contribute to the team’s success. Despite the large lead, Kansas remained focused on their season opener and potential areas for growth.
Kansas leads 26-13 with 7:56 left in 1st half
A lineup featuring KJ Adams Jr. as the smaller 5-man provided valuable insights into the team’s versatility. Kansas continued to utilize their size advantage and limited Fort Hays State to a 20% shooting percentage. With all scholarship players available for the season opener, the Jayhawks were in a favorable position.
Freshman Johnny Furphy made his debut for Kansas, showcasing his eagerness to contribute. With Hunter Dickinson’s dominant performance, the Jayhawks maintained control of the game. Despite questions about their perimeter shooting, Kansas displayed their ability to score inside the paint.
Kansas leads 10-4 with 15:51 left in 1st half
With eight points on perfect shooting, Hunter Dickinson showcased his size advantage over Fort Hays State’s defenders. The Jayhawks’ focus on interior scoring allowed them to build an early lead. Head coach Bill Self was confident that their inside dominance would continue throughout the game.
As the game began, Kansas won the opening tip-off, establishing their control. Fans eagerly awaited the matchup, excited to see the team in action. Prior to tip-off, the starting lineups were announced.
Pregame
Here are the starting lineups
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Jordan Guskey covers University of Kansas Athletics at The Topeka Capital-Journal. He is the National Sports Media Association’s sportswriter of the year for the state of Kansas for 2022. Contact him at [email protected] or on Twitter at @JordanGuskey.
Olivia Wilson is a trendsetter in the world of digital culture. With an eagle eye for emerging trends and viral phenomena, she keeps readers up-to-date with the latest online sensations, memes, and pop culture trends. Olivia’s passion for staying ahead of the curve is infectious.
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