Thrilling Encounter in Lawrence
In a thrilling encounter in Lawrence, Kansas, S’Mya Nichols emerged as a standout performer, sinking 15 of 17 free throws, including a perfect 8-for-8 in the closing minutes, to secure a 68-59 victory for Kansas against the 20th-ranked Texas Tech on Wednesday evening. Nichols’ impressive free-throw performance is historic, marking the first time a Jayhawk has hit 15 or more free throws in a game since Carolyn Davis achieved the feat against Wisconsin on November 2, 2010.
Kansas’ Season Progress
With this win, Kansas improved their season record to 18-11 and pushed their Big 12 tally to 8-9, extending their winning streak to three games and claiming five victories in their last six outings. Their sole defeat in this stretch was a close battle against Texas Tech earlier in the month, where they fell 70-65 on February 10.
Texas Tech Performance
On the opposing side, Texas Tech, now at 24-6 overall and 11-6 in the Big 12, saw Sarengbe Sanogo reach a new personal best with 16 points on an impressive 8-for-10 shooting, also contributing six rebounds and a season-high of five blocks. Teammates Snudda Collins and Bailey Maupin scored 11 and 10 points respectively, but faced challenges from the three-point line, with Maupin hitting none of her eight attempts.
Key Contributions from Kansas
Kansas’ Jaliya Davis was another significant contributor, posting a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. The Jayhawks also saw Elle Evans add 11 points, including three successful three-pointers, while Regan Williams chipped in with 10.
Final Stretch and Looking Ahead
In the final stretch of the game, Texas Tech struggled offensively, going just 1-for-7 on shots in the last five minutes. Kansas seized the opportunity to finish strong, outscoring their opponents 16-3 to secure the win. The Jayhawks dominated at the free-throw line, converting 89% of their attempts and outscoring the Lady Raiders significantly, 24-5, in that area. This disparity was compounded by foul trouble for the Lady Raiders, who committed 27 fouls compared to Kansas’ 16, leading to Bristow and Denae Fritz fouling out.
Looking ahead, Texas Tech will aim to close out their regular season this Sunday at home against Arizona State, while Kansas prepares for a road matchup against Oklahoma State on Saturday as the regular season comes to a close.
