Kansas extended their win streak to 15 straight with their 64-59 comeback win in Austin on Saturday afternoon. The Jayhawks struggled to score for much of the game, but they were able to hit 21 of their 25 free throw attempts to keep the game close. With 15 minutes to go in the game, Kansas found themselves down by 11 points and Texas was on a 12-0 run. The Jayhawks hadn’t scored a point from the point guard position, and looked a step slow on the defensive end. A big three point bucket by Naadir Tharpe and a monster dunk by Ben McLemore quickly changed the game for Kansas and they used a 17-6 run in the final 5:36 to close out Texas.
Freshman Ben McLemore, who didn’t look 100% on his sprained right ankle led Kansas with 16 points, 6 rebounds and 1 beautiful assist. Center Jeff Withey finished with 14 points, 9 rebounds, 3 blocks and 4 assists. Travis Releford, who hit 4 big free throws to close the game, went for 12 points and 6 rebounds.
Kansas shot 28% (7-25) in the first half but shot 50% (13-26) in the second half to end the game at 39.2% from the field.
Texas shot 36.7% (11-30) in the first half and hit 53.8% (14-26) in the second half to end the game at 44.6% from the field.
Kansas outscored Texas 28-24 in points in the paint.
Kansas outscored Texas 19-17 off turnovers.
Kansas outscored Texas 12-5 in 2nd chance points.
Kansas outscored Texas 14-4 in fast break points.
Texas outscored Kansas 22-10 in bench points.
