BY: MIKE McCURRY
The Kansas Jayhawks’ frontcourt, already a major question mark, just took a major hit in the depth department.
Freshman center Udoka Azubuike has been ruled out for season due to a left wrist injury.
Azubuike, a four-star center from Nigeria, tore ligaments in the wrist during Tuesday’s practice and will undergo surgery sometime over the next few weeks.
The 7-footer, who had started Kansas’ last six games, was averaging 5.0 points and 4.4 rebounds in 12.9 minutes per game this season. His 18 blocked shots currently lead the team.
“We all feel bad for Udoka,” said head coach Bill Self, who was nominated for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame earlier Wednesday. “He has worked so hard and has put himself in a position to have a tremendous impact on this year’s squad. This is a blow to our team but I know that we will rally around this and Udoka will work hard to insure a full recovery.”
The Jayhawks, who have reeled off ten straight victories following a season-opening loss to Indiana, are a legitimate national championship contender thanks to their backcourt trio of Frank Mason, Devonte’ Graham, and Josh Jackson.
But Kansas’ frontcourt leaves much to be desired at times, giving Self no choice but to frequently implement his “Four Game” concept, featuring a bevy of guards on the floor and either Jackson or Svi Mykhailiuk operating at the power forward spot.
With Azubuike’s injury, Carlton Bragg, Landen Lucas, and others will be required to step up.
Photo: Topeka Capital-Journal
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