Big 12 basketball continues to ball out as Kansas jeopardizes ranking status

Manhattan, Kansas - Kansas basketball lost more than just state bragging rights after falling short in a nail-biting, one-point loss to first-year head coach Jerome Tang’s Kansas State team.

In a thrilling matchup, the Kansas State Wildcats defeated the Big 12's best Kansas to steal the No. 1 spot in conference rankings.
In a thrilling matchup, the Kansas State Wildcats defeated the Big 12's best Kansas to steal the No. 1 spot in conference rankings.  © PETER AIKEN / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

Tang's first experience in the Sunflower Showdown will surely be one to remember!

The Kansas State Wildcats defeated their crosstown rivals Kansas 83-82 in an overtime classic battle that shook the standings in the Big 12 Conference.

The Wildcats' win over the reigning national champions earned them the top spot in the Big 12, bumping the league's former best team Kansas to the No. 2 spot.

While the Jayhawks will still be in good standings following their second loss of the season, Kansas State will likely see a big jump in the national rankings.

Currently, Kansas ranks behind only Houston nationally, but will likely be voted out of the top five after Kansas State's big upset.

With March Madness less than two months away, it's critical for the Jayhawks to be among the nation's best to receive a good seed in the tournament.

The Big 12 is loaded with great teams this year who are equally able to make a strong run for the national title. As Kansas did everything in their power to try and earn a big victory over K-State, the Jayhawks will have to wait until January 31 for a rematch against the league's best.

Until then, Kansas will focus their attention on their next showdown on Saturday against TCU at 1 PM EST.

Cover photo: PETER AIKEN / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

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