There is a renewed emphasis on Kansas’ defense this season. Last season, the Jayhawks’ 69.6 points per game given up marked the nation’s 81st-best and the 7th-best in the Big 12. Not a terrible mark on either front, but likely not enough to sustain postseason success as the Jayhawks were quickly swept away by the Arkansas Razorbacks in the first round of the NCAA Tournament with a 79-72 loss.
While there can never be much stock in an exhibition matchup, especially if said exhibition is against Division-II Fort Hays State. Yet Kansas handled business well and allowed only 35 points in what was a resounding 71-35 win.