The college basketball world held its breath as Hunter Dickinson, the dominant 7-foot-2 center, stepped onto the court for the first time this season. After missing two exhibition games with a minor injury, the preseason All-American was back in action Monday night as the top-ranked Kansas Jayhawks hosted the Howard Bison in their season opener at the iconic Allen Fieldhouse.
Dickinson Shakes Off the Rust
Despite the layoff, Dickinson wasted no time reminding everyone why he’s considered one of the best players in the nation. The skilled big man poured in 16 points on an efficient 5-of-8 shooting, while also grabbing 6 rebounds, swatting 2 shots, and swiping 3 steals in just 21 minutes of action. While Dickinson admitted to feeling “some rust from a finishing aspect,” his overall performance left little doubt about his readiness to lead the Jayhawks in their title defense.
“It felt really good [to be playing],” Dickinson said after the game. “Thankfully I have a couple of more days before the big game.”
Hunter Dickinson on his return to action
Jayhawks Roll in Opener
With their star center back in the fold, Kansas had no trouble dispatching Howard, cruising to an 87-57 victory. The Jayhawks showcased their depth and versatility, with five players scoring in double figures. According to a source close to the team, the squad’s ability to seamlessly integrate Dickinson back into the lineup is a testament to their cohesion and the leadership of head coach Bill Self.
A Looming Challenge
While the win over Howard was a strong start, the Jayhawks know that a much tougher test awaits them on Friday night when they host the 9th-ranked North Carolina Tar Heels. The marquee matchup will feature a battle of two of the nation’s most talented rosters, with a particular focus on the backcourt duel between the Tar Heels’ star guards and the Jayhawks’ own talented perimeter players.
“I think it will be hard to guard their three guards,” Dickinson noted. “They have one of the best backcourts in the country.”
Hunter Dickinson on the upcoming matchup with North Carolina
However, Dickinson believes that the Jayhawks’ intense practices will have them well-prepared for the challenge. “Going against ourselves will probably be the best [preparation],” he said. “If we are who everyone says we are – the No. 1 team in the country – we should be able to play against each other and make each other better in the next three days.”
The Road Ahead
As the Jayhawks embark on their journey to defend their national title, the return of Hunter Dickinson serves as a reminder of just how formidable this Kansas team can be. With a perfect blend of talent, experience, and coaching, the Jayhawks have all the ingredients necessary to make another deep run in March.
But for now, the focus remains on the task at hand – a date with the Tar Heels and an opportunity to make an early statement in the college basketball landscape. With Dickinson leading the charge, the Jayhawks are poised to rise to the occasion and prove once again why they’re the team to beat in 2024-25.
