Kansas plays St. John’s in the second round of the NCAA Tournament this afternoon, and we’ve got your prediction, preview and best bet from Heartland College Sports, an independent Big 12 digital media outlet covering the Big 12 Conference. Kansas beat Cal Baptist in the first round, while St. John’s handled Northern Iowa with ease on Friday. Here’s everything to know ahead of the match up.
Kansas vs. St. John’s Basketball Updated Odds
St. John’s has opened as a 3.5-point favorite in the game vs. Kansas, with the over/under set at 140 total points. As we approach tip off today, the line has stayed remarkably steady, with the over/under moving up to 144.5 total points.
Key Storyline: Which Kansas Shows Up?
It’s been a confusing season for the Kansas Jayhawks, who have some of the best wins of the season (Arizona), but also perplexing losses (Arizona State). The up-and-down nature of this season has been unique during Bill Self‘s tenure. It was even on display during the Cal Baptist game on Friday night in San Diego, as Kansas led by 20 points at halftime, and then had to hang on for an eight-point victory.
Match Up to Watch: Who Wins the Boards?
These are two of the best rebounding teams in their respective conferences. St. John’s is tops in the Big East at 38.8 rebounds per game, while Kansas was second in the Big 12, behind Arizona, with 38.9 rebounds per game. These teams can muscle you up on the glass, and whoever owns it on the defensive end, but also the offensive end, and scores more second-chance points is going to be in a great spot to win this game on Sunday afternoon.
Prediction: St. John’s 72, Kansas 66
I believe Rick Pitino and the Red Storm are the more motivated team here after they had a second-round exit last March. They’ve been waiting for this game for one year, and here they are, getting a Kansas team that has been far from consistent this season. Ultimately, it will be St. John’s winning this game, in part taking advantage of some sloppy KU play that has plagued them this season. The Jayhawks ranked 15th in the Big 12 in turnover margin, while St. John’s was third in the Big East. St. John’s has been the more consistent and balanced team all season, having won seven in a row. And now, with the more balanced attack, led by Zuby Ejiofor and Bryce Hopkins, the Red Storm will move on to the Sweet 16 with a six-point victory.
