RH: Shockers Lean On Dennis' Defense

Seventh-seeded Wichita State plays Tulsa (2 p.m. ESPNU) today (Thursday) in the first round of the American Athletic Conference Championship at Dickies Arena.

Did the Shockers get a good draw in Fort Worth?

Yes. A team that hasn't enjoyed many fortunate breaks this season landed in a potentially advantageous spot.

Wichita State (15-12) swept 10th-seeded Tulsa (10-19) this season and has won 17 of the past 19 meetings. A possible matchup against second-seeded SMU (22-7) appears much friendlier than facing third-seeded Memphis or top-seeded Houston.

Now it is up to the Shockers to play with a consistency and purpose that eluded them early in the conference schedule. Their work over the past 11…