In an intense matchup on January 28, 2025, the Kansas Jayhawks emerged victorious against the UCF Knights with a final score of 82-76. The game, held at the Allen Fieldhouse in Lawrence, Kansas, was particularly challenging for the Jayhawks as they played without pivotal guard Dajuan Harris Jr., who was sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained during practice ahead of the game. Head coach Bill Self commented on Harris’s absence, stating, “Dajuan is a huge part of our team, and not having him on the court is definitely felt. However, I am proud of how the team responded and stepped up in his absence.”
Despite the absence of Harris, the Jayhawks showcased a strong team effort with standout performances from KJ Adams, who contributed significantly to the team’s success by scoring 22 points, including crucial free throws in the closing minutes. The team was also bolstered by the impressive play of Gradey Dick, who finished the night with 18 points, demonstrating his ability to lead in high-pressure situations.
On the other side, UCF fought fiercely to keep the game close but were unable to secure a win, even with a valiant effort from their star player, Taylor Hendricks, who led the Knights with 25 points. Head coach Johnny Dawkins expressed pride in his team’s resilience despite the loss, saying, “We stepped up to the challenge, but it wasn’t enough tonight against a strong Kansas team.”
The win not only extends Kansas’s winning streak but also positions them favorably as they look ahead in the season. Coach Self acknowledged the collective effort and the importance of continued growth as they navigate through the injuries, remarking, “Every game is a learning opportunity, and I trust my players to keep pushing forward.”
As the Kansas Jayhawks move forward in the season, they remain hopeful for Harris’s quick recovery while they continue to build chemistry and cohesion as a team.
