Kansas vs. NC State: Jayhawks Survive Overtime Battle in Raleigh
In a game that had all the makings of a December classic, Kansas and NC State went blow for blow at the Lenovo Center, trading momentum swings, highlight-reel plays, and defensive grit before the Jayhawks finally pulled away in overtime. This wasn’t just a non-conference clash-it was a proving ground for two teams with March aspirations, and neither side backed down.
Flory Bidunga Puts His Stamp on the Game
Let’s start with the most physically dominant presence on the floor: Flory Bidunga. The Kansas big man was a force in the paint, throwing down multiple emphatic dunks that not only energized his team but also silenced the home crowd in Raleigh. Bidunga’s explosiveness around the rim was on full display, especially in the second half, when he rose up and flushed it over NC State’s Quadir Copeland-a dunk that will be on highlight reels for weeks.
But it wasn’t just about the dunks. Bidunga impacted the game on both ends, altering shots, cleaning the glass, and anchoring a Kansas defense that needed every bit of his presence during NC State’s late surges.
Melvin Council Jr. Steps Up in Crunch Time
While Bidunga brought the power, Melvin Council Jr. brought the poise. The guard came alive in the second half and into overtime, making big plays when Kansas needed them most. Whether it was driving into traffic for a tough finish or reacting with emotion after a clutch bucket, Council’s energy was contagious.
In overtime, Council’s composure stood out. He didn’t force shots-he made the right reads, attacked when the opportunity was there, and helped stabilize the Jayhawks when the game could’ve gone either way. His leadership in the extra frame was one of the key reasons Kansas walked away with the win.
NC State Shows Fight, But Comes Up Just Short
Give credit to NC State-they didn’t just hang around, they pushed Kansas to the brink. Ven-Allen Lubin battled relentlessly in the paint, fighting for boards and loose balls, while Jamari McDowell and Tre Holloman brought the kind of defensive intensity that made every Kansas possession a grind.
The Wolfpack had their chances late in regulation but couldn’t quite close the door. Still, their effort and execution-especially on the defensive end-showed this is a team with toughness and depth. They didn’t back down from the moment, even as Kansas threw everything at them.
Darryn Peterson’s Quiet Impact
Freshman Darryn Peterson didn’t light up the scoreboard, but his presence was felt. He moved the ball well, played within the flow of the offense, and made smart decisions under pressure. In a game where every possession mattered, Peterson showed maturity beyond his years-something Kansas fans should be excited about as the season progresses.
A Statement Win for Kansas
This wasn’t just another W for Kansas-it was a gut-check win on the road in a hostile environment. These are the kinds of games that build chemistry and reveal character.
The Jayhawks didn’t play a perfect game, but they played a resilient one. And when it mattered most, their stars delivered.
With conference play looming, this overtime win in Raleigh could serve as a turning point. Kansas showed they can take a punch, reset, and respond. That’s the kind of DNA that wins games in March.