UCF vs Kansas Picks and Prediction – 3/13/2025

The UCF Knights and Kansas Jayhawks meet in the second round of the Phillips 66 Big 12 Championship at the T-Mobile Center. UCF comes in at 17-15 after an 87-72 win over Utah, while Kansas, at 20-11, is coming off an 83-76 victory against Arizona. Both teams are looking to advance, with Kansas hoping to avoid an early exit in the tournament. Dominate the college scene with our College Basketball picks.

UCF has had an up-and-down stretch but enters this game with momentum after a convincing win over Utah. The offense has been solid, averaging 78.6 points per game while shooting 42% from the field. Keyshawn Hall leads the way with 18.5 points and 7.1 rebounds per game, while Darius Johnson is the playmaker with 4.2 assists. The Knights have won three of the last five.

Defensively, UCF has had issues, allowing 79.8 points per game, which is a red flag against a Kansas team that can score efficiently. The Knights are, however, aggressive on defense, averaging 7.7 steals and 4.5 blocks per contest. Moustapha Thiam has been a presence inside with 2.6 blocks per game, but UCF’s 36.8 rebounds per game might not be enough to battle Kansas on the boards.

Kansas has faced a tough stretch in the Big 12 but remains a dangerous team. The Jayhawks score 75.5 points per game and shoot an efficient 47.4% from the field. Hunter Dickinson is the anchor, averaging 17.4 points and 9.9 rebounds, while Dajuan Harris Jr. runs the offense with 5.7 assists per game. The Jayhawks have shown inconsistency, losing two of the last three, but are still one of the more talented teams in the conference.

Defensively, Kansas is much stronger than UCF, allowing just 67.9 points per game while limiting opponents to 47.4% shooting. Rebounding is a key advantage, with Kansas pulling down 38.4 boards per game, led by Dickinson. The Jayhawks also have strong rim protection with Flory Bidunga averaging 1.6 blocks per game. 

Kansas has the defensive edge, rebounding advantage, and overall more balanced attack. UCF’s scoring ability is solid, but allowing nearly 80 points per game against a Kansas team with size and efficiency is a tough matchup. If Dickinson dominates inside and Harris keeps the offense flowing, Kansas should take care of business. Final Score Prediction: Kansas wins 82-70.