KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Hunter Dickinson had six of his 23 points in overtime as Kansas escaped with a 98-94 victory over UCF in the second round of the Big 12 Conference tournament on Wednesday night. Kansas will face No. 2 seed Arizona next in what promises to be an electrifying matchup.
The Jayhawks, fueled by Dickinson's dominant performance and crucial plays from their supporting cast, managed to outlast the Knights in a game that saw multiple lead changes and a frenetic pace. UCF, determined to pull off the upset, gave Kansas all they could handle, pushing the game into overtime after the score was tied at 86 at the end of regulation.
Dickinson's heroics in overtime, combined with the team's collective determination, ultimately sealed the deal for Kansas. His six points in the extra period proved to be the difference, as the Jayhawks outscored UCF 12-8 in overtime. This win not only advances Kansas in the tournament but also underscores the team's resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
Looking ahead, Kansas' matchup against Arizona is highly anticipated, given the strength and talent of both teams. Arizona, with its potent offense and stingy defense, will present a formidable challenge to Kansas. The game is expected to be a clash of styles, with Kansas' methodical approach facing off against Arizona's fast-paced offense.
The Big 12 Conference tournament has already seen its share of upsets and close calls, and the Kansas vs. Arizona game is likely to be another thriller. Fans of both teams, as well as neutral observers, are eagerly awaiting this showdown, which could have significant implications for the teams' standings and NCAA tournament seeding.
For Kansas, the path to success will depend on Dickinson's continued dominance in the paint, coupled with the team's ability to limit Arizona's scoring opportunities. On the other hand, Arizona will look to exploit any defensive lapses by Kansas and capitalize on its quick transitions to score easy baskets.
The stage is set for what promises to be an unforgettable game between two basketball powerhouses. As the tournament progresses, the intensity and stakes will only continue to rise, making each matchup a must-watch for fans of college basketball.