Kansas basketball coach Bill Self might be losing sleep over more than just the team’s depth issues. While injuries have exacerbated the problem, the team has struggled with three-point shooting and defending the three-point line during Big 12 Conference play.
Throughout their 13 nonconference games, the Jayhawks shot 37% from three, but since conference play began, they’ve only managed 31%. This places them at 11th in the conference for three-point percentage and dead last in made shots behind the arc. With an average of just 4.9 made threes per game, they trail behind other teams significantly.
Defensively, Kansas ranks 11th in the conference, allowing opponents to make 35.5% of their three-point attempts. Only West Virginia has given up more made shots from behind the arc. This combination of poor three-point shooting and defense poses a significant challenge for the team’s success.
In the competitive landscape of today’s basketball, struggling with both three-point shooting and defending the same shot is a recipe for consistent failure. Last season, the Jayhawks excelled in both categories, ranking fifth in the conference for both three-point shooting and defending the three-point line.
While depth remains a concern for the Kansas basketball team, their struggles with three-point shooting and defense during conference play are issues that demand attention. As the Big 12 Tournament approaches, addressing these weaknesses will be crucial for the team’s performance and success.
