The No. 4 Kansas Jayhawks (1-0) and the No. 7 Kentucky Wildcats (2-0) face off at United Center. Action starts at 9:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday, November 14, 2017, and it can be seen on ESPN.
Kentucky Wildcats vs. Kansas Jayhawks Odds Preview
The last time the Wildcats played, they defeated the Vermont Catamounts, 73-69. PJ Washington was the games high scorer with 17 points on 7-for-14 shooting. The Wildcats had a much better free throw rate (0.321 vs. 0.121) and had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (27.6 vs. 17.6).
The Jayhawks hope to maintain momentum after thoroughly outplaying the Tennessee State Tigers in their last game, 92-56. Kansas Devonte Graham had a good game, contributing 10 points, 12 assists and seven rebounds. The Jayhawks had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (40.0 vs. 18.6) and had a much better effective field goal percentage (0.700 vs. 0.397).
The game should be a matchup of strength against strength as the high-octane offense of Kansas takes on the elite defense of Kentucky. Since the 2016-17 season, the Jayhawks rank 13th in offensive efficiency, while the Wildcats are 39th in defensive efficiency.
The Jayhawks won the lone game against the Wildcats last season, 79-73. Kansas had a much better turnover percentage (14.3 vs. 20.8). Kentucky, meanwhile, had a better free throw rate (0.236 vs. 0.156).
Kentucky Wildcats vs. Kansas Jayhawks ATS Prediction
Predictions: SU Winner – Kansas, ATS Winner – Kansas, O/U – Under
Betting Notes (2016-Present):
- The Wildcats rank 45th in assists allowed per game (11.4) while the Jayhawks rank 118th (12.6).
- Kentucky ranks 19th in steals allowed per game (4.8) while Kansas ranks 225th (6.9).
- The Wildcats rank 13th in blocks per game (5.3) while the Jayhawks rank 171st in blocks allowed per game (3.6).
- Kansas averages 38.8 rebounds per game, which ranks 35th in the NCAA. Kentucky ranks 158th in rebounds allowed per game (34.9).
