One of the most anticipated matchups in the early portion of the college basketball season was Kansas Basketball taking on Kentucky in the Champions Classic. There were the reported final two options for No. 1 freshman prospect Tyran Stokes, who ultimately picked the Jayhawks over the Wildcats.
At least for one night, Stokes made the right decision, Kansas took an early lead that ultimately ballooned into double-digits, before the game got out of hand. In the end, the Jayhawks coasted to an 89-69 victory for a ranked resume-building win in the Champions Classic.
Here’s a look at the biggest takeaways from the game on the Jayhawks side.
1. Tre White dominates
In his first four years in college basketball, White never had a 30-point game. He did that against Kentucky, going 11/16 from the field and 4/8 from three-point range. Only three Jayhawks were in double figures on the night so they needed someone to go off. It could’ve been Stokes, who went for 23 points. But White turning into an elite individual scorer would be a welcomed development for the program.
2. Trey Kaufman-Renn’s all-around impact
Another super senior having an impact was Kaufman-Renn, who produced 12 points, six rebounds, and six assists in 24 minutes. He fit fine into the offense in the frontcourt, showcasing his all-around skills-set. Considering the foot injury to starting point guard Melvin Council Jr., it was great for Kansas to have another facilitator on the floor for the time being.
3. Didn’t need great PG play but it was still an issue
Speaking of Council’s absence, the playmaking duties now fall on Toledo transfer Leroy Blyden Jr., as well as five-star freshman guard Taylen Kinney. On the night, the duo combined for just 12 points on 3/18 shooting from the field. On a bright note, Kinney did have a game-high eight assists, showing he can be a capable lead guard while Council is out. They’ll need better scoring from them since they can’t rely on White to go off on a nighty basis.
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