Kansas vs Kentucky: 3 key storylines for 2023 Champions Classic matchup

Both Kevin McCullar and Antonio Reeves have a chance for national attention

Hunter Dickinson is the most notable name for more casual fans, while freshman Justin Edwards is the highest-rated NBA Draft prospect. But the Champions Classic is the opportunity for someone to break out on the national stage. And each team has a senior wing set to have their biggest years yet.

Antonio Reeves currently leads the Wildcats with 16.0 ppg, shooting 50% from three-point range. He had a big preseason campaign as the focal point of the offense and that has carried over in the first week of the season. His counterpart is Kevin McCullar, who posted career-highs in his first year at Kansas after transferring over from Texas Tech.

McCullar also has boosted his own offense, going for 18.5 ppg, 6.5 rpg, and 4.5 apg, while also shooting over 40% from three-point range. After his big game against Illinois in the exhibition game, the 5th-year senior is primed for his biggest offensive year yet.

Both players could be in a position for Conference Player of the Year if these performances continues. And that starts on Tuesday in the Champions Classic. Whichever one has the bigger game could be key to their respective team’s chances at winning.