Bill Self and the Kansas Jayhawks, sitting as the No. 4 seed in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, have arrived in San Diego, gearing up for their first-round face-off against No. 13 Cal Baptist, the reigning WAC tournament champions, set for Friday night.
In a press conference on Wednesday, Self addressed several topics, notably the absence of Bryson Tiller during the second half of last week’s Big 12 semifinal loss to Houston. Tiller struggled against the Cougars, hitting just 1 of 5 shots for a mere two points.
Bill Self on Bryson Tiller
Self had previously discussed Tiller’s physicality following the TCU game, so it was no surprise that questions resurfaced upon their arrival in San Diego.
“I’ve talked to Bryson, and really, it’s not a big issue. I just chose to play different guys that day,” Self explained.
“He understands, and we’ve talked. His attitude’s been fantastic, and he’s had a good week.”
It seems unlikely Tiller will miss any action in Friday’s tournament opener. The Jayhawks are focused on bouncing back after a disappointing end to their Big 12 run.
Bill Self on Cal Baptist
Discussing their opponent, Self noted that Cal Baptist, who narrowly escaped Utah Valley in overtime to claim the WAC title, could surprise despite Kansas being a 14.5-point favorite.
CBU was the WAC preseason regular-season favorite but was edged out by UVU. Rick Croy’s impressive home record of 160-43 is a factor as his team makes the short trip south from Riverside, California.
Dominque Daniels Jr., the WAC Player of the Year, averaging 23.2 points per game, will be a key player to watch. He’s set to clash with Kansas’ standout guard, Darryn Peterson, both making their NCAA tournament debuts.
“It’s a unique league,” Self remarked. “They play each other three times.
I hadn’t seen that before. With only seven teams, they’ve got plenty of games, but playing the best teams twice could be an advantage.
They finished just a game out because they didn’t lose at home… They’re more than capable.”
On the health front, Kansas is entering Friday with a fully fit roster, a luxury they haven’t always had. Peterson, who faced criticism while dealing with cramps, is now ready to go.
“I’m grateful all 16 guys have been practicing,” Self said. “Health-wise, we’re in good shape, which isn’t always the case this time of year. We’ve been derailed before, but not this time.”
Friday’s matchup sees Kansas against a top-50 defense that holds opponents to about 67.6 points per game. The Big 12’s strength surpasses their opponent’s league resume, and the Jayhawks need to prove their mettle ahead of a potential second-round showdown with Rick Pitino’s No.
5 St. John’s.