KU Remains Number One; Flagg’s Interceptions Sink the Jayhawks

Close Calls and Costly Turnovers Mar KU’s Top Ranking

The University of Kansas basketball team remains atop the AP Top 25 for a second straight week. But the Jayhawks’ tenuous grasp on the number one ranking is starting to slip. Kansas narrowly escaped a stunning upset in their Champions Classic matchup with Duke. The Blue Devils led by 11 points with less than ten minutes remaining in the game. But a furious Jayhawk rally, capped by a game-tying three-pointer by Dajuan Harris with just seconds left, forced overtime. Kansas held on for a 94-88 victory, but not before Duke missed a potential game-winning three at the buzzer.

Kansas followed up their near-disaster against Duke with another nail-biter against Southern Utah. The Jayhawks trailed by 10 points at halftime before rallying for a 95-85 win. KU was uncharacteristically sloppy with the ball, committing 16 turnovers. That total is tied for the most by any Kansas team in a regulation game since 2010.

One of the biggest culprits in KU’s turnover problems has been sophomore guard Bobby Flagg. Flagg, who started 29 games last season, has struggled to protect the ball this year. He has committed 19 turnovers in three games, including eight against Duke and five against Southern Utah. Flagg’s turnovers have led to easy baskets for opponents and have put unnecessary pressure on the Jayhawks’ defense.

The Jayhawks will look to clean up their play when they host North Carolina State on December 1st. NC State is 3-0 this season and should provide another tough test for Kansas.

If KU wants to maintain its number one ranking, it will need to play better than it has in its first three games. The Jayhawks have shown some impressive offensive firepower, but they have also been plagued by turnovers and defensive lapses. If they can clean up those areas, they have the potential to be a national title contender.

Conclusion

Kansas’ number one ranking is in jeopardy. The Jayhawks have played three close games to start the season and have committed too many turnovers. If they want to maintain their status as the top team in the country, they will need to play better going forward.