College Basketball Weekend Preview Week 8

Kansas arguably has the most complete starting five in college basketball. Now, this begins with the play of Ochai Agbaji and his improved scoring ability from all three levels. The emergence of Christian Braun being a more dependable secondary scoring option has helped too. Remy Martin has transitioned well into his role as the catalyst for the Kansas offense and will need to be in shape against the Texas Tech defense. Kansas should have major advantages inside with David McCormack against the Texas Tech bigs. The ability to bring Jalen Wilson off the bench for Kansas gives them additional offensive and rebounding ability.

As for Texas Tech, and their ability to defend Kansas’ will dictate their ability to be in this game. Therefore, they must be able to contain the dribble drive concepts the perimeter of Kansas plays with. Along with, defending McCormack well inside. Now, for Texas Tech to win this game they will need Terrance Shannon to play in this game for them to get a win over Kansas. Continued, the play of Kevin McCullar will be important with his size and versatility at his position. Also, the ability for Kevin Obanor to stretch the defense with his 3-point shooting will be key.

The offensive firepower for Kansas will outlast the defense of Texas Tech in this game.

Iowa State has gotten off to a terrific start in year one under T.J. Otzelberger. This begins with the play of their offense having multiple threats around the perimeter. First off, Tyrese Hunter has been a major factor with his scoring and toughness from the guard position, as well as Izaiah Brockington with his scoring matched with the ability to rebound consistently. Furthermore, Tristian Enaruna has shown flashes of his potential at the wing position. Additionally, George Conditt has been a stabilizing force on both ends for Iowa State. The overall togetherness of the Iowa State team has been impressive.

Oklahoma has played very good basketball in year one for Porter Moser and will look to get a signature win. The perimeter defense for Oklahoma is very solid led by Elijah Harkless and Jordan Goldwire in the backcourt. Jalen Hill anchors the backend of the defense. Tanner Groves sets the tone for his shot-making ability and can stretch defenses out. Also, the playmaking of Uja Gibson will be key for the Oklahoma offense throughout.

Oklahoma’s ability to slow down the Iowa State perimeter will be the difference in this game and lead to an Oklahoma win.

Tennessee’s defense is the tone-setter for their team and will be key against LSU especially in transition. The point guard play of Kennedy Chandler will be important in allowing the Tennessee offense to be more consistent, along with the improved play of Santiago Vescovi and his shot-making ability. The toughness of Josiah Jordan-James will be vital for Tennessee defending the perimeter of LSU. The front-court battle of John Fulkerson against Tari Eason will be crucial in this game.

As for LSU, they are coming off a strong performance against Kentucky at home looking to keep the momentum going. The play of Tari Eason has been great for LSU with his energy and ability to score around the rim. Xavier Pinson has brought stability for LSU in the backcourt and will need to be good in his matchup against Kennedy Chandler. Also, the play of Darius Days with his versatility on both ends will be important throughout against Tennessee. LSU’s consistency on the offensive end will be their key in this game against Tennessee.

LSU’s athleticism and ability to get out in transition will be the difference in their win over Tennessee.