The Texas Tech Red Raiders play host to the Kansas Jayhawks in a crucial Big 12 showdown on Tuesday night from United Supermarkets Arena. The Jayhawks come in having just moved up in the latest AP Poll and with six wins in a row, will look to keep that streak going in this one. Texas Tech dropped their last game and is hoping being back at home gives them the chance to right the ship. Kansas won two of three last season and with eight of the last ten overall, they should have the mental edge in this one, even if going on the road might be a challenge.
After what has been another fast start for the Jayhawks this season, Tuesday's game will mark their first Big 12 road game of the season and could come in one of the most difficult environments. The last time out, they snuck by Oklahoma State in their Big 12 opener and know that this one will be a tough test. Their only loss of the season came away from home, albeit on a neutral court in that one. Last year's group lost last year's meeting at Texas Tech and that won't be forgotten as they look to avenge that result. With quality wins on the resume, now they turn to pick up crucial Big 12 wins as they continue their journey towards a one-seed and a Big 12 title.
The Jayhawks continue to navigate a trio of injuries, though none have appeared to be impactful quite yet. Wilder Evers and Charlie McCarthy remain out with undisclosed injuries, with neither having appeared in a game yet. Kyle Cuffe Jr. (knee) remains out into February but after only averaging three minutes a game in two games, the Jayhawks have rolled along fine without him.
On the come up #??3?? pic.twitter.com/5n67Ik3bmq
— Kansas Men's Basketball (@KUHoops) January 2, 2023
It shouldn't come as a surprise to see Kansas finding success on both sides of the court, though the offense has been elite this season. Ranked in the top 75 across nearly every offensive category, they could be in for a tough matchup against the Red Raiders' stifling defense. Jalen Wilson (21 ppg, 8.6 rpg) has established himself as one of the best players in college basketball this season and will be a difficult matchup for the Red Raiders to take care of. One to keep an eye on is Kevin McCullar Jr. (11.5 ppg), as the former Red Raider will be looking to make his presence known in his first return to his old stomping grounds.