Before every KU men’s basketball game, The Star’s Jesse Newell previews the Jayhawks’ upcoming opponent with a scouting report and prediction.
Thursday’s game: No. 3 Kansas at UNLV, 8 p.m., Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas (CBS Sports Network)
Opponent’s record: 7-5
KenPom (Ken Pomeroy) Ranking: 187
Point spread: KU by 21 1/2
All statistics from KenPom.com, Hoop-Math.com and Synergy Sports Technology. KenPom stats also only include Division I competition.
3 Strengths
u25aa Free throws: This is one of coach Marvin Menzies’ specialties, as for a four-year stretch with New Mexico State, his team ranked in the top 10 in offensive free-throw rate.