Tuesday night’s game between No. 1 Kansas and No. 11 Duke at T-Mobile Arena took an unexpected turn when star player Hunter Dickinson was ejected in the second half. Despite this setback, Alabama transfer Rylan Griffen stepped up to lead the Jayhawks to a 75-72 victory over the Blue Devils.
Griffen’s crucial 6-0 run, including a 3-pointer and a 3-point play, helped Kansas secure the lead late in the game. With the Jayhawks up by just one point in the final moments, Griffen made a key steal and sank two free throws to seal the win. Duke’s last-ditch effort with a 3-point attempt fell short, handing the victory to Kansas.
Kansas coach Bill Self praised Griffen’s performance under pressure, highlighting his contributions in the absence of Dickinson. The star center was ejected after a controversial play that resulted in a Flagrant 2 call. Self acknowledged that while the ejection may have been severe, a penalty was necessary.
Griffen, who was benched at the start of the game, embraced the opportunity to make an impact when it mattered most. Following a halftime incident where Self criticized him for taking a long shot instead of waiting for the last play, Griffen focused on playing his best in the critical moments of the game.
Despite Dickinson’s absence, Kansas found a way to rally together and secure the win. Griffen’s performance, coupled with solid defense from KJ Adams against Duke’s Cooper Flagg, proved crucial in overcoming the challenges they faced.
Looking ahead, the Jayhawks recognize the significance of this early-season win but remain grounded knowing that much can change as the season progresses. Adams emphasized the need to stay focused and not get carried away with success, as both teams will continue to evolve as the season unfolds.
In conclusion, Kansas’ victory over Duke showcased the team’s resilience and ability to adapt in the face of adversity. With key players stepping up in critical moments, the Jayhawks demonstrated their potential for success as they navigate the challenges of the season. The win serves as a valuable lesson and a motivating factor for the team as they continue their journey in the competitive college basketball landscape.
