Kansas Basketball: 2019-20 keys for Jayhawks against Villanova Wildcats
Run, run, run
Villanova is one of the slower teams in the nation, with an adjusted tempo of 66.9 possessions per game according to prophetratings.com. The Wildcats will want to slow the game down and take their time offensively to generate a high-quality look. Kansas should be aggressive off of steals and defensive rebounds and push the ball up the floor quickly to get Villanova out of its rhythm.
Kansas has not had less than 67 possessions in any game this season, and their best performances have come when they’ve played fast. Their most impressive victory of the year was a 90-84 win over Dayton, a game in which each team had 77 possessions. Blowout wins over Monmouth and UMKC also were quick paced games.
Kansas is better equipped to handle a fast-paced game than Villanova. Guards Devon Dotson and Marcus Garrett can be counted on to lead fast breaks, and Kansas could open up opportunities for high-quality transition three-point shots. If the game is fast-paced and high scoring, Kansas should have a clear advantage.
A trip to Villanova is never an easy task, but Kansas looks to be the more well-rounded team, and they should handle business on the road. The Villanova offense is lethal, but Kansas has a very good defense, and they should take away easy looks at the basket. If they limit free throw opportunities, Villanova might struggle to score more than they have in any game.
Next. Big 12 power rankings. dark
Kansas has clear advantages on the offensive end. By pushing the pace and looking for three-point shots, Kansas will give themselves the best chance to keep their number one ranking intact.