It was supposed to be a friendly tune-up, a night when Kansas rolled a Division II opponent while moving a day closer to the regular season.
Instead, KU’s 100-54 victory over Pittsburg State turned into a preview of what’s to come for fans in the 2017-18 season: moments of exhilaration combined with continuous unease — the result of roster construction unlike any other in coach Bill Self’s 15 seasons.
To be clear: KU showed its immense talent for long stretches. Lagerald Vick skied for putback dunks, and Udoka Azubuike bruised his way to points and rebounds inside.