3 Things We Learned From Kansas Basketball's Big Win Over No. 11 Duke

The Jayhawks got the better of the Blue Devils on Tuesday night. Here’s what you need to know.

Nov 26, 2024; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Kansas Jayhawks guard Dajuan Harris Jr. (3) celebrates near the end of the second half against the Duke Blue Devils at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images / Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

On Tuesday night, the No. 1 Kansas Jayhawks pulled off a dramatic 73-72 victory over No. 11 Duke, and it was a game that taught us a lot about this team.

Here’s what stood out.

1.) This Team Has Fight

Nov 26, 2024; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Kansas Jayhawks forward Flory Bidunga (40) catches a loose ball against Duke Blue Devils guard Cooper Flagg (2) during the first half at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images / Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

One thing was clear: this Kansas squad doesn’t back down. Even when things got tough — especially after Hunter Dickinson’s ejection in the second half — the Jayhawks kept battling.

With the game hanging in the balance, they showed serious grit, staying composed and finishing strong. Rylan Griffen’s clutch free throws with just seconds left sealed the win, but the real takeaway was how this team sticks together and fights for every possession.

That kind of resilience will serve them well all season.

2.) Hunter Dickinson’s Impact Is Huge — And His Absence Was Felt

Nov 26, 2024; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Kansas Jayhawks center Hunter Dickinson (1) and Duke Blue Devils forward Maliq Brown (6) fall to the floor during the second half at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images / Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Hunter Dickinson was a force in the first half. His size and skill were critical, both defensively and offensively, and he helped Kansas control the paint.

But once he was ejected for a flagrant 2 foul in the second half, the game shifted. Duke began to attack the rim more easily, and without Dickinson, Kansas struggled to keep up defensively.

His absence was a glaring reminder of just how important he is to this team. His leadership, rebounding, and presence in the paint are absolutely irreplaceable.

3.) Kansas Is the Best Team in the Country

Nov 26, 2024; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Kansas Jayhawks forward KJ Adams Jr. (24) celebrates after making a play against the Duke Blue Jackets in the second half at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images / Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Despite all the drama, Kansas showed why they’re among the top teams in college basketball.

They have depth, talent, and the ability to adapt, making them a serious contender. With players like Dickinson, DaJuan Harris Jr., and others stepping up, the Jayhawks proved they can handle any challenge.

Beating a top team like Duke in a neutral environment is no small feat, and it solidified that Kansas has what it takes to be the best.

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