In the leadup to the 2023 edition of the Champions Classic, much has been made about how Kentucky will defend the top-ranked Kansas Jayhawks, which is powered by 7-foot-1 All-American center Hunter Dickinson. Considering the Wildcats will most likely be without all three of its seven-footers when the two teams clash Tuesday night in Chicago, it’s an understandable talking point.
But on the flip side, Kansas will have to defend Kentucky, as well. Through two games UK has showcased a potent offense fueled by transition action and plenty of outside shooting. The Wildcats scored 86 points against New Mexico State then 81 against Texas A&M-Commerce, turning the ball over a combined nine times across the two outings while shooting an average of 26 three-pointers per contest.