"When we got our a** kicked there, we shook everyone's hands": Bill Self takes shot at Kansas State HC Jerome Tang following 22-point win over rivals
With the regular season closing in, the rivalries are starting to heat up. The latest example came from the Big 12 when Kansas head coach Bill Self took it upon himself to teach Kansas State head coach Jerome Teng about the importance of sportsmanship and respect.
Against a fierce rival within the state, the matchup was always going to be heated. However, Kansas, continuing its solid play throughout the year, was utterly dominant as it thrashed Kansas State 90-68 for a relatively easy 22-point victory.
After the game, Self said:
"He (Tang) just didn't want to shake hands, he just did a fly-by. That's fine, that's fine...I will say this, when we got our a** kicked there, we shook everyone's hands and did a handshake line. So I guess it was different here today."
At the end of his speech, however, Bill Self did try to justify his opponents' actions.
"That's what happens with rivalries."
For the Jayhawks, it was their four-guard lineup in a team effort that dominated throughout, giving the #12-seeded Kansas its 23rd win of the season, improving to 23-8. With their position near the top of the Big 12 solidified, the next challenge for Kansas is the NCAA tournament.
What are the odds for Bill Self and the Kansas Jayhawks in the NCAA tournament?
Unsurprisingly, Kansas has the 12th-best odds to win the NCAA Championship. Ahead of it stands some true juggernauts like the UConn Huskies and the Houston Cougars. But, from the Big 12 itself, the Jayhawks are the third-ranked team, behind the aforementioned Houston and the Iowa State Cyclones.
Tied with them at +3000 are the Baylor Bears, which faces an easy matchup against Texas Tech in the final game of the regular season. On the other hand, Kansas is preparing for a highly anticipated clash with the Houston Cougars on March 9 at the Fertitta Center.
A victory over a national contender could propel Kansas up the charts and solidify it as a dark horse to win the tournament.
While Kansas has the better offense, Houston's stifling defense could prove to be its kryptonite.
The last time they faced off, early in February, Kansas came away with a 78-65 victory.
Do you think the script will repeat itself or will the Cougars exact revenge? Let us know in the comments below.