Hailey
The Kansas Jayhawks delivered a strong and confident performance as they defeated the Missouri Tigers 80-60 in the StorageMart Border Showdown in Kansas City. It was a complete team effort where Kansas showed great scoring balance, strong defense, and impressive teamwork.
With four players scoring in double figures and smart play on both ends of the floor, Kansas proved why they remain one of the toughest teams in college basketball.
Kansas Takes Control Early
The game began with both teams exchanging baskets and fighting for early momentum. Kansas and Missouri traded scoring runs, and the lead changed six times in the first half. Missouri tried to stay close, but Kansas stayed calm and focused throughout the early minutes.
The real turning point came just before halftime. Kansas closed the first half on a powerful 12-2 run. The highlight of the run was a buzzer-beater 3-pointer from Tre White, which pushed Kansas ahead 33-25. This shot gave Kansas a big boost and set the tone for a dominant second half.
Tre White Leads the Team With a Big Double-Double
Senior Tre White had the best performance of the night. He scored 20 points and grabbed 13 rebounds, giving him an impressive double-double. His scoring, rebounding, and confidence on the court kept Kansas ahead throughout the game.
Kansas also showed great balance, with four players scoring in double figures. This made it difficult for Missouri to defend because the scoring threat came from multiple directions.
Top Kansas Performers
| Player | Points | Extra Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tre White | 20 | 13 rebounds, buzzer-beater 3-pointer |
| Darryn Peterson | 17 | Strong scoring and energy |
| Bryson Tiller | 13 | Scored 12 points in second half |
| Flory Bidunga | 10 | Inside scoring and rebounding |
Strong Kansas Defense Shuts Down Missouri
A major reason for Kansas’ victory was their tough and disciplined defense. Missouri was held to only 60 points, which is their lowest scoring total of the season. Kansas guarded well, controlled rebounds, and made it difficult for Missouri to find open shots.
Kansas’ teamwork on defense showed why they have been successful in this rivalry. With this win, Kansas has now claimed victory in six of the last seven Border Showdown matchups.
Kansas Dominates the Second Half
Kansas came out of halftime with full energy and quickly stretched their lead. Just three minutes into the second half, Kansas was ahead by 18 points. Senior Melvin Council Jr. scored back-to-back baskets that pushed the score to 44-26.
The momentum continued as freshman Bryson Tiller and sophomore Jamari McDowell added more scoring power. Tiller scored 12 points in the second half alone, while McDowell added 9 points. Both players helped Kansas stay firmly in control of the game.
The Jayhawks never allowed Missouri to come close again. Kansas held leads of up to 20 points in the later minutes and finished the game with a strong 80-60 win.
Kansas Prepares for Their Next Challenge
Kansas now looks ahead to their upcoming matchup against North Carolina State on December 13. Kansas leads the all-time series 13-1, giving them confidence as they prepare for another competitive game.
With their strong performance against Missouri, Kansas will enter the next matchup with high energy and momentum.
Kansas’ victory over Missouri was a complete performance filled with strong scoring, teamwork, and excellent defense. Tre White’s double-double and the contributions from multiple players helped Kansas take full control of the Border Showdown.
With their smart play and high confidence, the Jayhawks showed they are ready for even bigger challenges this season. Fans can look forward to more exciting basketball as Kansas continues its journey.