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Summary:

The #17 Kansas Jayhawks (10-3, 0-0 B12) travel to Orlando, Florida, to face the UCF Knights (11-1, 0-0 B12) in their Big 12 opener. Kansas holds a 3-1 all-time record against UCF, winning the last three contests, including a 98-94 overtime victory in 2025. UCF is receiving votes in the Coaches Poll and boasts a strong rebounding and 3-point shooting team. Kansas excels in blocked shots and field goal percentage defense. A loss would mark the second consecutive year Kansas starts league play 0-1, a drought not seen since the early 1980s. The game will be televised on NBCSN and streamed on Peacock, with radio coverage on the Jayhawk Radio Network.

News Article:

#17 Kansas Opens Big 12 Play on the Road Against UCF

ORLANDO, FL – The #17 Kansas Jayhawks (10-3) tip off their Big 12 conference schedule on the road today against the UCF Knights (11-1) at Addition Financial Arena. The Jayhawks are favored by 4.5 points, and the over/under is set at 156.5.

Kansas holds a historical edge in the series, leading 3-1, and are riding a three-game winning streak against UCF, including a thrilling 98-94 overtime win in March 2025.

While the Jayhawks enter as the ranked team, UCF is receiving votes in the Coaches Poll, signaling a potentially challenging matchup. The Knights’ resume includes wins against Texas A&M and Pitt, with their sole loss coming against Vanderbilt. UCF’s strength lies in rebounding and three-point shooting, ranking among the nation’s best in those categories.

Kansas, known for their defensive prowess, leads the Big 12 in blocked shots and ranks among the top ten nationally in blocks and field goal percentage defense. Under coach Bill Self, Kansas has a remarkable 46-0 record when grabbing 40+ rebounds while committing fewer than 10 turnovers. The Jayhawks have reached the 40+ rebound mark in each of the last four games.

A loss for Kansas would mark the second straight year starting Big 12 play with a defeat, a situation not seen since the 1981-82 and 1982-83 seasons.

Tip-off is scheduled for 1:00 PM CDT and will be broadcast on NBCSN and streamed on Peacock. Radio coverage will be available on the Jayhawk Radio Network and Sirius XM channels 200 and 392.

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