LL's got a double-double

So far 12 points and 10 rebs.

And that huge block!

Woo Hoo indeed!

And he adds to both with a Oreb and a putback!

KU is gonna win, baby!

ROCK CHALK JAYHAWK KU!

It's time for Hawknmo to finally admit what everyone else has been saying--Landen is a STUD and he's met EVERY...SINGLE...CHALLENGE thrown at him since being named the starter.

Seeing him live and in person (from the lower level, because we "upgraded" for the KU game) was wonderful. He is just a FORCE on the floor. The Maryland fans were literally shaking their heads every time he executed a STRONG and terrific boxout on a Maryland blocker for a big rebound--and he did it time and time again. Not only that, but he went 6-7 from the floor, hit his only two free throws (big), and did all of his usual strong work in screens, spacing, 50-50 balls, etc.

To be brutally frank, he and Perry (our front court) saved the Hawks' chestnuts in that first half, because our guards could do NOTHING. And that's all 3 of them. Yet we had a 2-point lead. Why? Ellis and Lucas, that's why!

You'll also note that our worst run in the 2nd half came when Lucas got into foul trouble (3rd) and had to sit for a long stretch. Jamari played pretty lousy during that stretch, and we had issues pulling away. Self put him back in due to Jamari's gaffes at I think around the 10-minute mark (?), and KU went on a stampede. It was equal doses of Perry, Landen, and Wayne, but it just underscored how critical he is to the KU attack.

I couldn't be more proud of a KU player than Landen, given all of the time he put in behind the scenes, just waiting for his chance. What a great story and evolution! Keep it up, Landen!

... The Gospel according to Lucas this Saturday.

"Be physical."
"Be in position to best help your teammates."
"Defend with your feet, and your body shall follow."
"Do not lose sight of your man; stay between him and the hoop."
"Block out. Rebound. Repeat... again and again and again."
"Set screens as if they are locked doors."
"Maintain verticality."
"It's not just how many shots you block, it's also how many shots you change."
"Make the bunnies -- and if you miss, get the rebound and put it back!"
"With floor burns 50-50 balls are 80-20 in your favor."
"When your teammates know you've got their backs, they can play their best and have yours, too."
"When opportunity rears its head, saddle it with preparation and ride it home. "

This is awesome, HE! Love it...