LAS VEGAS — Top-ranked Kansas is set to face No. 11 Duke in a high-profile clash Tuesday night, a matchup showcasing two of college basketball’s most storied programs.

With the Jayhawks entering as the No. 1 team in the country, the game presents a significant opportunity for both squads to test their depth in the early season.

Duke head coach Jon Scheyer, preparing for the challenge of facing the Jayhawks, praised Kansas for the test they present.

“We want to make sure they’re as ready as possible, while still building up their strength and their physicality,” Scheyer said about his team’s approach. “Understanding what these games are going to present.”

Kansas, led by Hall of Fame coach Bill Self, has a roster packed with experience and firepower, headlined by preseason All-American Hunter Dickinson.

The Jayhawks have flexed their dominance early this season, solidifying their position at the top of the rankings.

Scheyer stressed the importance of his players staying focused amid the high stakes.

“We’ve worked really hard on attacking every game, no matter the situation, no matter the ranking, no matter (the location), the same way,” he said. “How can you approach it and be better than you were in the last game?”

For Kansas, this matchup serves as a chance to reinforce their status as the team to beat. For Duke, it’s an opportunity to test their young but talented lineup against the nation’s best.

Tip-off at T-Mobile Arena promises an electric atmosphere as two blue-blood programs collide on a national stage.

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The Colorado Buffaloes had their sights set on making a statement against the Kansas Jayhawks, a pivotal matchup that could have catapulted them into contention for the Big 12 Championship. Since Deion Sanders took the reins following a dismal 1-11 season, the Buffs have aimed to prove their mettle, and this game was seen as a defining moment. A victory would have positioned them as frontrunners for the conference title, solidifying their status as one of college football’s most compelling turnaround stories.

However, the Buffs seemed unsettled at times, struggling on both sides of the ball against a relentless Kansas team. Quarterback Shedeur Sanders led Colorado’s resurgence and found himself under constant pressure. His frustration boiled over after a controversial late hit below the knees went unpenalized, a play that many, including Sanders himself, believed warranted a flag. The lack of officiating consistency added to the Buffs’ struggles, impacting their rhythm and momentum.

Despite the adversity, Heisman hopeful Travis Hunter showcased his undeniable talent. Down 17-0 in the second quarter, Hunter’s determination shone through as he scored his first touchdown of the game on a screen pass from Sanders, igniting a comeback attempt. Hunter’s performance was historic, setting his fifth 100-yard receiving game of the season. He finished the contest with eight receptions for 125 yards and two touchdowns, further cementing his place as one of the nation’s premier playmakers. Yet, even Hunter’s heroics weren’t enough to secure a win, as the Buffs fell short against the Jayhawks.

The loss caused Colorado to slide seven spots to No. 23 in the AP Top 25 rankings, leaving their Big 12 Championship hopes hanging by a thread. They now find themselves in a four-way tie in conference play, needing favorable outcomes from games involving Arizona State, Iowa State, and BYU to keep their championship aspirations alive.

As the Buffs prepare for their final regular-season game against Oklahoma State, they remain bowl eligible and eager to showcase their resilience. Coach Prime and his squad are determined to end the season on a high note, with eyes on securing a marquee bowl game. Senior Day at Folsom Field promises to be a spectacle, as the Buffs aim to prove that their journey under Coach Prime is far from over (Noon ET/TV: ABC).

Associated Press

Longwood Lancers (6-1) vs. Kansas State Wildcats (4-2)

Charlotte Amalie, Virgin Islands; Monday, 5:30 p.m. EST

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Wildcats -9.5; over/under is 141.5

BOTTOM LINE: Longwood and Kansas State square off in Charlotte Amalie, Virgin Islands.

The Wildcats have a 4-2 record against non-conference oppponents. Kansas State is ninth in the Big 12 with 16.3 assists per game led by Dug McDaniel averaging 5.0.

The Lancers have a 6-1 record in non-conference games. Longwood has a 1-0 record in games decided by 3 points or fewer.

Kansas State is shooting 45.1% from the field this season, 0.4 percentage points higher than the 44.7% Longwood allows to opponents. Longwood averages 5.4 made 3-pointers per game this season, 2.6 fewer made shots on average than the 8.0 per game Kansas State allows.

TOP PERFORMERS: David N’Guessan is shooting 68.6% and averaging 14.3 points for the Wildcats.

K.J. McClurg is averaging 14.3 points for the Lancers.

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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.