Wichita State vs Kansas Picks and Prediction – 12/30/2023

In the heart of college basketball season, a compelling matchup is set as the Wichita State Shockers (8-4, 1-1 away) prepare to challenge the Kansas Jayhawks (11-1, 7-0 home) at the T-Mobile Center. The Shockers, with a resilient spirit, face a formidable Kansas squad, holding the fort with an impressive home record. This battle, airing on December 30 at 3:00 PM, is a true test of will and skill in the college hoops landscape. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Wichita State, holding a 76.0 points per game average, faces a stern test against Kansas' stingier defense. The Shockers, led by the scoring prowess of Colby Rogers (16.8 PPG, 43.1 FG%, 73.9 FT%), have shown they can rack up points, but a 70.6 points against average suggests defensive vulnerabilities. 

Key contributors like Kenny Pohto (8.0 rebounds per game) and Harlond Beverly (3.7 assists, 1.8 steals per game) add depth, but 44.3% field goal and 31.7% three-point shooting percentages might struggle against a superior Jayhawks defense. 

Kansas, with an enviable 11-1 record and an unblemished home run, looks to maintain dominance. Keven McCullar Jr. has been a standout (20.4 PPG, 50.6 FG%, 83.3 FT%), spearheading an offense that averages 79.1 points per game. The Jayhawks' real strength, however, lies in the defense, allowing just 65.2 points against per game. 

Hunter Dickinson's presence on both ends (18.3 PPG, 12.5 rebounds, 1.3 blocks per game) is pivotal, complemented by Dajuan Harris Jr.'s playmaking (6.8 assists per game). An impressive 51.4% field goal shooting percentage underscores a balanced and efficient attack.