NCAA Tournament 2017 Sweet 16: Grading Each Team’s Title Hopes

Kansas Jayhawks (1) – Midwest Region

Considering the level of talent and the prestige of the program, to say that this might be the best Kansas Jayhawks team that Bill Self has coached. Even if you disagree, it’s one of the most unique. Josh Jackson is primed to go within the first three picks of the 2017 NBA Draft Lottery and he’s flanked by two guards in Devonte’ Graham and Frank Mason III that are both experienced and big-time players.

What’s interesting about this Jayhawks team is that, after the departure of Perry Ellis, their frontcourt is both shallow and not particularly gifted. They play small-ball much of the time, largely because the size and versatility of Jackson allows them to do so. The result is simply a matchup nightmare for anyone they face. Kansas’ stars can make teams pay on both ends of the floor simply because most teams can’t go toe-to-toe with their unique blend of talent.

Of any team remaining, it feels as if Kansas has the best chance of anyone to wind up cutting down the nets in Phoenix. Yes, their lack of an inside presence is worth noting, but I also wouldn’t say it makes them volatile. Their guards and wings are able to present so much of a problem and able to beat teams from so many different angles that, even if they’re in a matchup against a great frontcourt, they likely still boast more advantages.

Chances: High