“We didn’t execute. Put it on me.” This is what Bill Self said when his Kansas Jayhawks saw a six-point lead with seconds left on the clock evaporate to lose 92-86 against Houston Cougars in the second overtime.For Bill Self and Kansas, the loss marked the end of a two-game winning streak, bringing their season record to 14-5 and 5-3 in the Big 12 conference.

The Jayhawks now find themselves in a crowded battle for fifth place in the conference standings. With Baylor and BYU in the mix as well, Kansas will have plenty of work to do to climb back up. The Jayhawks’ best player this season, Hunter Dickinson, admitted this loss was hard to digest and their character will be tested in the upcoming games. He said, “I think our character will be tested a lot in these next couple days after this loss… Because, obviously, it’s heartbreaking, and that kind of was the mood in the locker room; it was just kind of shock of what just happened.”

Hunter Dickinson is averaging 15.8 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 2.4 assists on 53.4% shooting. Analysts Rob Dauster, John Fanta, and Terence Oglesby of The Field Of 68: After Dark believe that leaning too heavily on Hunter’s strengths could spell trouble for Bill Self’s Kansas team. Could this strategy backfire for the Jayhawks? Let’s dive into what the experts are saying!

Terrence Oglesby says, “Hunter has always played with another big; I just think that’s where he’s more comfortable.” He continues, “He is used to a high-low game and that’s where you are gonna see the best version of Hunter. I am not sure that’s where you’re gonna see Kansas make Final Four.” 

While Terence Oglesby recognizes the benefits of playing big and physical, an edge that often works well in college basketball. He warns it has its limits. Kansas, currently ranked 11th and a solid top-15 team, has the potential to climb to a top-4 seed. However, to make that leap, the Jayhawks must sharpen their shooting on the floor. History has proven that you can’t win NCAA tournaments without having reliable shooting on the floor.

The big question now is whether Coach Bill Self will stick to his tried-and-tested methods and play according to Hunter’s strengths or shake things up to address the issues. With March Madness looming, every decision matters as Kansas gears up to break past the second round they reached last season. Let’s dive into their upcoming matchups.

What’s next for Bill Self’s Jayhawks?

The Jayhawks are eager to shake off their recent stumble against the Cougars and get back on track. Up next, they host the UCF Knights at the iconic Allen Fieldhouse on January 28, 8 p.m. E.T.. The odds are heavily in their favor. ESPN gives Bill Self’s squad a commanding 90% chance to secure the win.

After taking on the Knights, the Jayhawks hit the road for a crucial showdown against Baylor at Foster Pavilion on February 1st. This game could be a turning point, as it might decide who gets the 5th seed in the Big 12 standings. ESPN sees this as a nail-biter, giving the Bears a slight edge with a 54.2% chance to win.

As analysts debate Kansas’ reliance on Hunter Dickinson and their shooting problems, the Jayhawks face a pivotal week with matchups against UCF and Baylor that could shape their Big 12 standing and postseason hopes. Will Bill Self’s squad rise to the occasion or face more questions? Stay tuned for more updates!