The Kansas Jayhawks are set to host the Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders on Tuesday night at Allen Fieldhouse, following a challenging defeat against North Carolina that exposed several areas for improvement within a young squad.
In their previous game, the Jayhawks faced a tough second half that led to a 13-point loss against the Tar Heels. Redshirt sophomore guard Elmarko Jackson emphasized the importance of learning from mistakes rather than dwelling on them, stating, “It’s a long season, so we can’t dwell on it too bad. We got a game tomorrow.”
This matchup marks the second encounter between Kansas and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, the first dating back to November 2010 when the Jayhawks secured a decisive 82-41 victory. The Islanders, now three seasons removed from their inaugural NCAA Tournament win, have experienced significant roster turnover with seven key players departed from last year’s squad. Under the leadership of first-year head coach Jim Shaw, the Islanders are looking to rebuild and aim for a return to postseason play.
The Islanders’ standout player, 6-foot-8 forward Sheldon Williams, is off to a solid start, averaging 15.7 points and 11 rebounds. However, the team has struggled early in the season, currently holding a 1-2 record after a recent loss to Tarleton State. Coach Bill Self remarked on the athleticism of the Islanders, indicating that both teams are still searching for their best form.
As the Jayhawks prepare for this game, they are focused on improving their rebounding performance, an area where they’ve lagged behind. In their loss to North Carolina, Kansas was out-rebounded 39-27, a significant concern given their reliance on height and size on the court. Coach Self pointed out the need for players like Flory Bidunga and Tre White to step up and take on more responsibility in securing boards.
Redshirt freshman Bryson Tiller showcased his potential in the game against UNC, but his effectiveness was limited by foul trouble. Self stressed the importance for Tiller and other forwards to maintain their presence in the paint while contributing offensively.
This game presents an opportunity for the Jayhawks to rebound both literally and figuratively as they look to regain momentum. Broadcast details for the game include live coverage on ESPN+ and local radio via the Jayhawk Radio Network.
With a healthy roster, including guard Darryn Peterson overcoming earlier cramping issues, the Jayhawks aim to put together a more complete performance against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. This matchup not only provides a chance for a win but also a moment to refine their skills early in this young season.