The Kansas basketball program will have its hands full when it faces the Wichita State Shockers on December 30th. The Jayhawks are ranked the second-best team in the country, but the Wichita State basketball squad possesses exceptional attributes. Bill Self acknowledged the challenge of taking on the Shockers despite Kansas having Hunter Dickinson at their service.

The Jayhawks need all hands on deck against Wichita State's outstanding personnel

Bill Self said the Shockers will be a “good, tough match-up” for Kansas, per Matt Tait. Self praised the Wichita State basketball squad for having good, defensive-minded bigs and an all-around athletic roster.

The Shocker's defense is anchored by junior center Quincy Ballard. Ballard blocks 2.3 shots per game while giving a respectable effort on the boards. Furthermore, junior guard Harlond Beverly is a Swiss Army knife for Wichita State.

Beverly leads the Shockers in steals per game (1.8) and assists (3.7). He also contributes 10.3 points and 5.1 rebounds per contest. Kansas has a tall task in combatting Wichita State's athleticism. However, the Jayhawks are battle-tested.

Kansas will enter Saturday's matchup with an overall record of 11-1. They are coming off a thrilling comeback win against the Indiana Hoosiers. The team boasts a high-caliber group which is led by Hunter Dickinson.

The former All-Big Ten First Team center averages 18.3 points and 12.5 rebounds per game, the latter of which is ranked second in the nation. Moreover, Dickinson shoots an incredible 50% on three-pointers so far during the 2023 season. His play gives Kansas an undeniable edge.

Of course, senior guard Kevin McCullar Jr. will look to impose his will on both sides of the ball. He leads the Jayhawks with 20.4 points and 1.6 steals per game.

Wichita State will be tough to handle, but Bill Self and Kansas will be ready for the challenge.