Kansas vs. West Virginia: 5 biggest storylines for first 2020-21 showdown

1. A defensive-minded guard and an exceptional offensive talent – two of the best in basketball – will go toe-to-toe

Both Kansas and West Virginia feature two of the best guards in all of the Big 12.  The Jayhawks have, arguably, the best defensive player in college basketball, whereas the Mountaineers feature an up-and-coming offensive weapon – one that has scored double-digits in seven of eight games thus far.

Marcus Garrett is the reigning Naismith Men’s Defensive Player of the Year, having averaged 1.8 steals last season – while committing just 2.6 fouls per 40 minutes in Big 12 play last year, despite playing 85.8% of the team’s minutes.

This season, Garrett has nearly matched those marks eight games in, tallying 1.5 steals per game – while faring better in fouling, committing 2.3 per 40 minutes.  In 81.1% of Kansas’ minutes thus far, Garrett has also contributed greatly on the offensive end, averaging 8.8 points and 3.9 assists per game.  He has struggled to find his shooting stroke – but his defense has been crucial to Kansas’ success – more on that later.

The Mountaineers, meanwhile, feature sophomore guard Miles McBride, who has supplied an offensive boost that West Virginia desperately needed – but lacked – last season.  After averaging 9.5 points per game in 2019-20, McBride has upped his output to 15.0 points – while dishing out 4.3 assists, both the highest marks on the team.

But like Garrett, McBride has been a force on the defensive end, averaging 1.9 steals – while committing just 2.1 fouls per 40 minutes.  Both are coming off solid outings in their last games – Garrett recorded 10 points and eight rebounds at Texas Tech, while McBride poured in 18 points to go with six rebounds and three steals against Iowa State.

West Virginia was not known for its guard play last season, nor does Garrett deserve much national attention due to not filling up the stat-sheet – but both McBride and Garrett have been beyond crucial to their team’s success.  The battle between guards will be one to watch in this game – and whether McBride’s offensive prowess can overcome Garrett’s defensive tenacity.