For much of the college basketball season, the Kansas Jayhawks men’s basketball looked like a team capable of making another deep March run. But with Selection Sunday approaching, the Jayhawks suddenly find themselves battling something far more concerning — momentum going in the wrong direction.
Kansas’ recent struggles continued Tuesday night with a 70–60 road loss to the Arizona State Sun Devils men’s basketball, a defeat that marks the Jayhawks’ fourth loss in their last six games and raises serious questions about their consistency heading into the postseason.
Arizona State seized control late behind a strong offensive performance from Maurice Odum, who led all scorers with 23 points while knocking down five three-pointers. His shot-making helped the Sun Devils create separation in the second half after the game remained tight through the opening 20 minutes.
Massamba Diop added 19 points and nine rebounds, providing Arizona State with an interior presence that Kansas struggled to slow down throughout the night.
While the Sun Devils’ offense found key moments, Kansas’ shooting struggles proved to be the biggest story.
The Jayhawks shot just 29% from the field and 26% from three-point range, numbers that made it difficult for them to keep pace even in a relatively low-scoring game. Kansas also committed 17 turnovers, further preventing any chance of building sustained momentum.
Tre White led Kansas with 16 points and 14 rebounds, while Darryn Peterson added 15 points and 10 rebounds, both recording double-doubles in an effort to keep the Jayhawks competitive. Flory Bidunga also contributed 14 points and 13 rebounds, giving Kansas three players with double-digit rebounds.
Despite that rebounding dominance — Kansas actually won the battle on the boards 55–43 — the Jayhawks simply couldn’t convert enough scoring opportunities.
Arizona State, meanwhile, capitalized on its chances. The Sun Devils shot 32% from the field and 32% from three, but their ability to hit key shots at critical moments helped them maintain control down the stretch.
With the game hanging in the balance during the second half, Arizona State slowly created distance, turning a competitive contest into a double-digit lead late in the game before Kansas could respond.
For Kansas, the loss represents more than just another setback.
The Jayhawks have now lost four of their last six games, a stretch that has turned what once looked like a stable season into a growing concern. In March, teams want to be playing their best basketball. Kansas instead appears to be searching for answers.
Part of the issue has been offensive inconsistency. When Kansas’ shots aren’t falling, the team has struggled to generate enough reliable scoring options to overcome those cold stretches.
Turnovers have also played a role, with the Jayhawks repeatedly giving away possessions in games that have otherwise been within reach.
Arizona State, meanwhile, continues to build confidence as the Big 12 season winds down. The Sun Devils improved their conference standing while adding a notable victory over one of college basketball’s most recognizable programs.
For Kansas, the focus now shifts to stabilizing before the postseason begins.
The Jayhawks still have the talent and experience that can make them dangerous in March. But if the recent trend continues, the team that once looked like a potential contender could suddenly find itself vulnerable when the NCAA tournament begins.
And after another disappointing road loss, one thing has become clear:
Kansas is entering March with far more questions than answers.
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