The Kansas Jayhawks looked solid, but not spectacular in their first-round matchup. They’ve got athleticism and defence in their favour, but the Trojans don’t waste the number of possessions that Kansas usually need to overcome their average shooting. Efficiency is generally USC’s calling card.
Picks:
USC def. Kansas ()
Over 134.5
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How to Watch USC Trojans vs Kansas Jayhawks
| USC vs Kansas Information |
| What |
USC vs Kansas |
| Where |
Hinkle Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana |
| When |
9:40 PM EST, March 22, 2021 |
| How to Watch |
CBS |
Head-to-Head: USC Trojans vs Kansas Jayhawks
| USC |
Head-to-Head |
Kansas |
| Andy Enfield |
Head Coach |
Bill Self |
| 23-7 (15-5, 2nd in Pac-12) |
Standing |
21-8 (12-6, 2nd in Big 12) |
| W-L-W-W |
Form |
W-W-W-W |
| 109.2 (47th of 347) |
Off Rtg |
105.4 (108th of 347) |
| 94.8 (51st of 347) |
Def Rtg |
94.8 (50th of 347) |
|
Leaders (Per Game)
|
| E. Mobley (16.8) |
PPG |
O. Agbaji (14.4) |
| E. Mobley (8.7) |
RPG |
J. Wilson (8.2) |
| E. Anderson (3.0) |
APG |
M. Garrett (3.6) |
| I. White (1.0) |
SPG |
M. Garrett (1.6) |
| E. Mobley (3.0) |
BPG |
D. McCormack (1.0) |
| B. Coulibaly (.692)/E. Mobley (6.1) |
FG%/FGM |
D. McCormack (.515)/D. McCormack (5.4) |
| I. Mobley (.400)/T. Eaddy (2.0) |
3P%/3PM |
D. Harris (.615)/O. Agbaji (2.7) |
Why Might the USC Trojans Win?
The Trojans played with calmness and maturity in their first-round matchup with Drake that won them the game. While they started poorly, their patience and defence helped secure them the victory. It starts on the inside.
In their last game, USC scored 23 of their 29 field goals from the two-point range, capitalizing on their advantage in the paint. They moved the ball, getting 20 assists on 29 field goals, and found the right shot when necessary.
They may have an advantage on a Kansas team that is coming off of a game where they struggled to defend the interior. If the Trojans can establish their paint presence early, they could take this match.
Editor’s Picks
Why Might the Kansas Jayhawks Win?
The Jayhawks are a better defensive team than they showed in their match against Eastern Washington. Their combination of athleticism and defence can give any team trouble.
Kansas posted one of their worst defensive performances of the season against Eastern Washington, allowing their opponents to shoot 50% from the field and 38.5% from three. Fortunately, their own offence was solid enough, shooting 47.9% from the field and 40% from three – forcing 12 turnovers was the cherry on top.
The Trojans want to take their time and pick their spots before shooting the ball, it likely won’t be a battle of pace. Kansas can take this match if they maintain their positive shooting, and keep the Trojans out of the paint.
Trojans Key Player: (F) Evan Mobley
USC freshman Evan Mobley is one of the most interesting players in the country. At 7’0, 210lbs, Mobley reminds many of Chris Bosh with a more defensive mindset. His performance against Drake was solid, with room for improvement.
Mobley posted 17 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks against Drake in 38 minutes of play. His lack of strength can be an issue at times, but he showed that he can intelligently position himself for good looks.
Head coach Andy Enfield will need Mobley to set the tone early when it comes to protecting the rim. Kansas aren’t the most prolific shooting team, so cutting off their first option should be priority number one.
Jayhawks Key Player: (F) David McCormack
Junior forward David McCormack returned from his bout with COVID-19 and looked as strong as ever. The Big man was relied upon heavily off the bench for the Jayhawks and he delivered.
McCormack scored 22 points and contributed nine rebounds, two steals, and a block in 25 minutes of play. His energy was infections, as he collected five offensive rebounds and led the Jayhawks to win the rebounding battle.
McCormack may get an even longer look in this game against the Trojans. He’ll need to match up with USC’s Mobley brothers, who have been successful in attacking the rim this season.
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