The fifth-ranked Tennessee Volunteers (4-0) go head-to-head against the second-ranked Kansas Jayhawks (4-0) in the Preseason NIT at Barclays Center. The game can be seen on ESPN2 at 9 p.m. ET on Friday, November 23, 2018.
Tennessee Volunteers vs. Kansas Jayhawks Betting Odds
Both teams were victorious over their last opponent. The Jayhawks defeated the Marquette Golden Eagles 77-68, while the Volunteers beat the Louisville Cardinals 92-81.
Tennessee played a nearly perfect game. They had a turnover percentage of 11.9 (better than their season average of 14.8) and an offensive rebounding percentage of 30.3 (below their season average of 30.7). Louisville was 16.8 and 24.3, respectively, for those same stats. The Jayhawks, on the other hand, had a great free throw rate of 0.276 (above their season average of 0.218) and had a turnover percentage of 10.4 (better than their season average of 15.0). Kansas was lifted by Dedric Lawson, who contributed 26 points and 12 rebounds. Grant Williams led the way for Tennessee, recording 24 points and nine rebounds.
The game should be a showdown of strength against strength as the prolific offense of Kansas takes on the elite defense of Tennessee. Since last season, the Jayhawks rank 13th in offensive efficiency, while the Volunteers are 28th in defensive efficiency. Furthermore, the Volunteers have been among the NCAA’s elite on the offensive backboards, ranking 54th in offensive rebounding percentage (33.1 percent). The Jayhawks, meanwhile, rank 257th in defensive rebounding percentage (69.9 percent).
Tennessee Volunteers vs. Kansas Jayhawks Odds Pick
Free College Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Kansas, O/U – Over
Betting Notes (2017-Present):
- Tennessee ranks 91st in three pointers allowed per game (20.7) while Kansas ranks 282nd (24.7).
- The Volunteers rank 107th in rebounds per game (36.7) while the Jayhawks rank 165th in rebounds allowed per game (34.9).
- The Volunteers average 4.7 blocks per game, which ranks 32nd in the nation. The Jayhawks rank 194th in blocks allowed per game (3.6).
- Tennessee ranks 19th in assists allowed per game (10.8) while Kansas ranks 145th (13.1).
