Jayhawks Survive Another Scare, beat ISU

The Kansas Jayhawks continue to keep fans on the edge of their seats, but at least for now, they continue to sit atop the Big 12 standings. Iowa State came to Lawrence seeking a regular season sweep, and for much of the game, it was very attainable.

The Cyclones didn't play especially well at first, with some early turnovers and poor outside shooting. However, Kansas couldn't find good looks from the field, which prevented them from capitalizing. ISU maintained a lead of about three to seven points for much of the half, and headed into the break up 42-37.

The second half started with KU continuing to be held at arm's length. The Jayhawks weren't doing anything particularly well, but just past the 11:00 mark, some shots started falling while ISU's stopped. Kansas went on a 14-0 run to lead 63-57 with about six to go.

The Jayhawks would ultimately extend their advantage to eight, but, and stop me if you've heard this one, they ended up letting it slip away. ISU resumed their hot shooting from outside and Kansas started turning it over. Michael Jacobson hit a three to tie the game with 2:31 left.

Lagerald Vick answered with a three of his own, but ISU answered to make it a one point game. Marcus Garrett got a steal and layup, but couldn't convert at the line to make it a three point play. KJ Lawson then fouled Jacobson, who hit one of two at the line. The biggest play of the game then came with 25 seconds left. After dribbling the shot clock down, Devon Dotson dished to Dedric Lawson who nailed a clutch three to make it a 77-72 lead. ISU didn't have time to come back.

It wasn't pretty for the Jayhawks overall, but Dedric Lawson had a monster performance, racking up 29 points with 15 rebounds and a huge block on a dunk attempt in the final minute. Dotson ended up with 11 points and a career high eight assists. Garrett had a quiet first half but ended up in the teens for a third straight game, finishing with 16 points, five rebounds and three steals.

Kansas gets a few days off before heading to Lexington for their SEC challenge matchup with 8th ranked Kentucky.