Perry Ellis and the No. 9 Jayhawks look to avenge their loss to the Mountaineers two weeks ago back in Morgantown. Juwan Staten hit the game-winning layup to beat the Jayhawks, 62-61. Can the Mountaineers pull off another upset — this time in Lawrence? Or will the Jayhawks still prove to be dominant at home and show that the Big 12 still runs through Allen Fieldhouse as another huge match-up occurs in the mighty Big 12?
Why Should You Care
The Mountaineers are looking to sweep the Jayhawks for the first time in school history. They’ve only met five times, but West Virginia has won the last two meetings. With WVU being two games back and only one game to go, it’s impossible to take control of first place, but the rest of the conference would love for someone other than Kansas to finish the regular season in first place.
Match-Up to Watch
The star of both teams is the match-up to watch in this one — if it happens. West Virginia senior guard Juwan Staten leads the Mountaineers in scoring and assists, but has been battling an injury. West Virginia coach Bob Huggins officially has said that Staten is “day-to-day,” but according to the Charleston Daily Mail, he didn’t practice on Monday. Kansas junior forward Perry Ellis is shooting very efficiently: 47 percent from the field; 38 percent from 3-point range.
X-Factor
Instead of pointing out one particular player, the main factor in this game is which defense can force more turnovers. The Mountaineers lead the country in steals per game. Kansas is one of the best shot blocking teams in the country as well.
Prediction
The game is going to be just as good as the first one, but I don’t think it will be as close. Kansas wins, 74-65.
Dorm Room Hoops 