VIDEO: SB Nation's Nick Fasulo Talks About Kansas' Win Over Ohio State

Before we completely move onto talking about the championship game between the Kansas Jayhawks and Kentucky Wildcats, here is one last look at Kansas' 64-62 win over the Ohio St. Buckeyes.

Kansas Head Coach Bill Self Wins The 2012 Naismith Coach of the Year Award

Bill Self can add a new accolade to his resume, as the Kansas Jayhawks head coach was named the 2012 Naismith Coach of the Year on Sunday. Self is the third KU head coach to win the honor and Self also won the AP coach of the year award back in 2009.

Kansas will celebrate the coach's award for a few brief moments before they continue their preparation for the showdown in New Orleans between the Jayhawks and the No. 1 overall seed in the country with the Kentucky Wildcats. Kansas has a 32-6 overall record and have won their eighth consecutive Big 12 regular season conference title since Self has arrived in Lawrence.

Kansas and Kentucky will tip at 9:23 pm Eastern Time on Monday in New Orleans as Bill Self will prepare to face off against John Calipari for the second time in four years in the NCAA Final.

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

Kentucky Vs. Kansas: The Jayhawks Discuss The Rematch With The Wildcats

The Kentucky Wildcats beat the Kansas Jayhawks 75-65 back on November 15th in New York’s Madison Square Garden. The national championship will be the rematch of this November matchup and things have changed greatly in four and a half months. These two teams have grown before our very eyes and now on the precipice of the final game of this college basketball season, its time to lay everything on the line.

The Boston Herald was able to capture some interesting quotes from some of the Kansas players and head coach Bill Self prior to Monday's finale. Check out the full read for more in-depth analysis.

KU's superstar guard Tyshawn Taylor on the rematch with Kentucky and KU's focus on stopping transition:

"I think we match up good (against UK), the three guards and the two bigs match up really well. I think they’re a little deeper ... and they can pull some guys in. But I think we match up well and I think it’s going to be fun. I think we’ve got to stop their transition, and we’ve got to use our transition. I think in the first game we got away from that when we played them. But our transition has been good. And as far as defending, that’s what got us here."

KU reserve guard Niko Roberts on how things have changed after seeing Kentucky for the first time:

"I think when we played them the first time, they didn’t really shock us, but they just played really well. Nobody had really seen how Kentucky plays. I think we’ve gotten a lot better. So I think, next game, we’ll be a lot better. ... We’ve got Jeff (Withey) down low, so we’ve got some size to combat their size and stuff like that, and I think we’ll do well."

KU head coach Bill Self on the historical implications of Kentucky versus Kansas:

"It’s pretty cool to have the winningest program of all time (Kentucky) and the second-winningest program of all time (Kansas) hooking up on Monday night."

The Kentucky-Kansas finale tips off at 8:23 pm Central Time in New Orleans at the Superdome.

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

VIDEO: Bill Self Official Post-Game Press Conference For Kansas

Last night's unbelievable come-from-behind win by the Kansas Jayhawks over the Ohio State Buckeyes was the opposite performance of their last outing against the team back in early December. Yet both ended up with the same conclusions. Bill Self spoke of what the Jayhawks learned from their first match-up against OSU in his post-game press conference last night after the team's Final Four win and also discusses the incredible crowd and much more. Check out the KU head coach's comments below.

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

Kentucky Vs. Kansas: Jayhawks Match-Up Well With Wildcats In National Championship Game

Kentucky will be the favorite. There's no doubt about that. They were the preseason favorite. They were the postseason favorite. Now that they are standing waiting for the Kansas Jayhawks like some guard in front of the national title door, most will expect Bill Self's team to finally fall at the hands of John Calipari's NBA-talent laden roster. But ESPN's Eamonn Brennan admits that while no team can match up perfectly with Kentucky, Kansas isn't as far off as others.

Brennan writes, "In so far as anyone can match up with Kentucky -- and really, no one can -- Self's team actually matches up pretty well. Withey isn't nearly as mobile as Davis (obviously), and it's hard to figure who will guard Kidd-Gilchrist or how a good-but-not-great offense will find its buckets against a still very good Kentucky defense. But in terms of sheer strength-on-strength matchups -- Kentucky's strength is offense, Kansas' defense -- Self's team isn't that far off the mark."

If nothing else, the end-of-game performance by the Jayhawks against so many other top ranked opponents should show what they are capable of match-ups aside. It's impossible to break things down once the 40 minutes on the floor begins and all eyes will be watching to see if Kentucky can live up to their potential or whether Self can pull off another miracle.

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

VIDEO: Kansas Fan Reaction In Lawrence After Ohio State Win

The fine folks over at Jayhawk Slant took some great video of KU fan reaction in Allen Fieldhouse and then out on the streets outside just after the Kansas Jayhawks eliminated the Ohio State Buckeyes in the 2012 Final Four in the last few minutes of their national semi-final game. Ohio State looked to be in control early and led by nine at halftime, but this KU team holds considerable toughness on the defensive end and clamps down after halftime in seemingly every game this post-season.

Check out the great kid dancing, the crowds reveling and the general great times being had by all:

t

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

2012 Final Four, Kansas Vs. Kentucky Odds

File this under unsurprising.

When the Kansas Jayhawks take the court on Monday night against the top-seeded Kentucky Wildcats, they're going to be the underdog. Just how much of an underdog they'll be is the only question, and right now, the Wildcats are six or six and a half point favorites to beat Kansas and claim the 2012 national title.

The opening line on the title game was six points, but both 5Dimes and topbet have upped the line to six and a half points. BetOnline, though, still has Kentucky as a six point favorite.

If you'd rather be the over/under, 5Dimes, BetOnline and topbet all have the same line: 138 and 1/2 points.

For what it's worth, these two teams met earlier this season on November 15, when the Wildcats, six point favorites then too, defeated Kansas 75-65, comfortably beating the spread.

For more on all things Kansas Jayhawks, be sure to check out Rock Chalk Talk. For more on all things March Madness, be sure to check out SB Nation's March Madness hub.

2012 Final Four: Jeff Withey A Big Part Of Kansas' Success

The Kansas Jayhawks are headed back to the national title game for the first time since 2008, when Bill Self's Jayhawks beat John Calipari's* Memphis Tigers in a thrilling title game. Now, Self's Jayhawks will facie another Calipari team, this time in the form of the top-seeded Kentucky Wildcats.

And, according to SI's Stewart Mandel, Jeff Withey is a big reason why.

Withey, who now has a school-record 136 blocks on the season, soundly rejected Craft, allowing Kansas to set up an uncontested layup by Travis Releford to cut the deficit to single digits just as the half ended. Still, only one team in Final Four history had overcome a larger halftime deficit in a semifinal game than the one facing the Jayhawks.

But Withey set the tone again shortly into the second half when he blocked three shots from Ohio State All-American Jared Sullinger within a 35-second span. The first set up a fast-break opportunity for Elijah Johnson, whose jumper cut the score to 36-29. The next two came on both an initial jump shot and put-back attempt by the 6-9, 280-pound Sullinger. The clearly affected Buckeyes star would finish just 5-of-19 from the field.

Mandel's entire article is well worth the read. Hopefully for Jayhawks fans, Withey will be at his best again on Monday night -- and he'll need to be as the Jayhawks will be against Anthony Davis and Terrence Jones.

For more on all things Kansas Jayhawks, be sure to check out Rock Chalk Talk.

2012 Final Four: Kansas Vs. Kentucky For National Title Features Memorable Match-Up

This will be a weekend to remember. That's what ESPN's Myron Medcalf writes about the 2012 Final Four that will ultimately pit the Kentucky Wildcats against the Kansas Jayhawks. One team has been dominant and heralded all season. Another was questioned early and had to silence the doubters. But now that KU and UK stand to face each other on Monday night, there are going to be several exciting storylines in play.

Medcalf writes, "The Kansas-Kentucky national title matchup features a multitude of fascinating storylines. Robinson versus Davis in a battle of national title candidates. John Calipari versus Bill Self, who led Kansas to a win over Calipari's Memphis squad in the 2008 national title game. The two teams with the most wins in college basketball. And this is the first time that the Final Four has featured three rematches, per ESPN Stats & Info."

Kentucky took care of rival Louisville while KU bested Ohio State in the second half to set up this incredible match. Kentucky will be favored, no doubt, but everyone will still be curious to see if Bill Self's Jayhawks can do what they've been doing all post-season -- coming from behind and doing just enough to win.

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

VIDEO: Bill Self Breaks Down Kansas' Second Half Performance Against Ohio State

The Kansas Jayhawks won once again last night with an incredible second half performance to take another game from a favored team against the Ohio State Buckeyes in last night's national semi-final game in the 2012 Final Four. It's the same formula that beat the North Carolina Tar Heels, Purdue Boilermakers and NC State Wolfpack before that. Bill Self said after last night's game that it's nothing magical he's saying at halftime. Instead it's about the players realizing what they have to do and what they are capable of -- and then executing those ideas.

Whatever he's doing is working because KU continues to dominate. Jeff Withey had 7 blocks. Thomas Robinson had 19 points and 8 boards. Every role player was doing exactly what they needed to do. Hear him talk about all of that and more in the vid below:

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

Printable NCAA Bracket 2012: Kentucky, Kansas Left For National Title

Only two teams are left standing in the 2012 Men's NCAA basketball tournament -- and there's a decent chance that your bracket had one of the two, if not both, still dancing. The top-seeded Kentucky Wildcats will take on the Kansas Jayhawks on Monday night, as a new college basketball champion will be crowned. If you're looking for a nice, clean bracket to compare against your (likely) messy one, or just to trace the paths of the two teams left dancing then look no further, as SB Nation has an updated, printable bracket ready to roll.

Kansas represents the highest seeded team that Kentucky will have played in the tournament so far, as the Wildcats didn't have to play the No. 2 seed from their own region, as Duke lost in the first round.

For the Jayhawks, the Wildcats will be the second No. 1 seed they've faced in the tournament, as they defeated North Carolina last Sunday in St. Louis to advance to the Final Four.

For more on all things March Madness, be sure to head over to SB Nation's tournament hub.

Kansas Vs. Ohio State Final Score: Jayhawks Win In Final Minute

From the odd lane violation on Aaron Craft's final free throw to Tyshawn Taylor nearly ending the game before giving OSU another chance, the game between the Kansas Jayhawks and Ohio State Buckeyes was frenetic in the final minute. But KU rose above it all to take another unexpected victory and send Ohio State home in the process. The next step for the Jayhaws: facing Kentucky in the national title game on Monday night.

Things didn't look good early for the Jayhawks. The Buckeyes went up 9 at halftime, and it was the typical sluggish start for KU against a team that looked good enough to finish it out. But the Jayhawks' defense showed up strong in the second half as it has all tournament long. Jeff Withey had 7 blocks. The Jayhawks outrebounded their opponents 41-30. The team started doing the little things to get back into it, and they finally secured enough momentum in the final minutes to close it out.

Now they go on to their greatest opponent yet in the Kentucky Wildcats. UK has definitely gotten better since they last played, but KU is another team entirely. It should be an interesting battle for the national title on Monday night.

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops and go visit Along the Olentangy for more Ohio State basketball. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA

Kentucky Vs. Kansas Holds Incredible Potential For Drama In NCAA Title Game

The Kentucky Wildcats were considered the favorites when the 2012 NCAA Tournament started, so it was not that surprising to see John Calipari's team still standing waiting for the winner of the Kansas-Ohio State game. Now that the Kansas Jayhawks have defeated the Buckeyes, the arrival of Bill Self's team brings a dramatic, scrappy KU team as the challenger along with some intriguing history.

ESPN's Eamonn Brennan writes, "The unlikely story of these Kansas Jayhawks isn't over yet. Kansas survived yet another nail-biting NCAA tournament game -- its speciality in the weeks leading up to this Final Four -- and its latest escape act puts it on the sport's biggest stage, with a chance to take down the overwhelming favorite, the Kentucky Wildcats. The game is a coaching rematch of the 2008 Final Four, when Bill Self's Jayhawks made their 9-points-in-2-minutes comeback to steal a remarkable national title from then-Memphis coach John Calipari's grasp. If we're lucky, Monday night's edition of Self vs. Calipari will be half as good. It certainly has that potential."

Calipari is looking for his first NCAA title, and he'll have his best chance yet on Monday with a team loaded with future NBA players. Anthony Davis and company will be the greatest team KU has faced all season. Even though they've already played once, both teams have matured considerably. Can the outcomes change? Kansas has already proven not to be against them.

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

Kansas' Jeff Withey Comes Up Big Against Ohio State When Jayhawks Need Him Most

The Kansas versus Ohio State match-up was mostly centered on two players coming into the contest. Thomas Robinson and Jared Sullinger are both considered among the greatest college basketball players in the country, so it’s no surprise that no one was even thinking of Jeff Withey as an MVP candidate for tonight’s national semi-final in the Final Four in New Orleans. But looking back on tonight’s match-up. it’s clear that Withey was the man for Kansas in their 64-62 victory over the Buckeyes.

ESPN’s Eamon Brennan writes, “Every Jayhawk played a role in their comeback and eventual win, and Robinson’s night — 19 points, 8 rebounds, 8-of-18 from the field — can’t be overlooked. But the most important performance came from the 7-foot Withey, whose incredible reach and interior defense made Sullinger a non-factor on the offensive end. Withey finished with seven 7 and 8 rebounds; Sullinger posted just 13 points on 5-of-19 from the field. In a game filled with tricky matchup issues, Withey was the biggest mismatch ace up Bill Self’s sleeve. He proved why Saturday night.”

Withey had 10 blocks against NC State and has stepped up big time as the season has progressed. He’s moved himself into a possible first round draft pick given his size and defensive presence, and Withey clearly has a higher ceiling than most believed. The Jayhawks hope he has one more great night in him in the 2011-12 season.

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops and go visit Along the Olentangy for more Ohio State basketball. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

ANIMATED: Kansas Jayhawks Are Dancing, Ohio State Fan Is Sad

Kansas Vs. Ohio State Final Score: Jayhawks Erase 13-Point Deficit, Advance To Title Game

The second half of this game saw a completely different Kansas Jayhawks team that came back from a 13-point first half deficit and a nine points at the half to defeat the Ohio St. Buckeyes 64-62. Kansas clawed their way back in this game and took their first lead of the since leading 2-0 when Travis Releford made his second free throw with 2:48 left in the game which gave Kansas a 56-55 lead.

VIDEO: Thomas Robinson Dunks, Yells But Kansas Still Trails

Kansas could use a bit of adrenaline in their contest against the Ohio State Buckeyes, but judging from the video below, Thomas Robinson is ready to provide just that. They were once down by double digits, but now the Jayhawks trail by five and seem to be finding their footing after struggling big early. Check out Robinson's dunk and scream below:

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops and go visit Along the Olentangy for more Ohio State basketball. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

Kansas Vs. Ohio State Halftime Score: Jayhawks Struggling, Trail 34-25

The Kansas Jayhawks offense is struggling quite a bit against the Ohio St. Buckeyes and trail 34-25 at the half, and they trailed by 13 points multiple times. The Ohio State defense has completely shut down the Kansas offense who is shooting only 37 percent from the field, and Kansas' two best players Tyshawn Taylor and Thomas Robinson have combined for 14 points on 6-of-15 shooting.

Taylor and Robinson have been missing open shots and with those two players have taken half of Kansas' shots, so when they do not play well it is likely that Kansas is losing at the half. Kansas has also struggled getting to the free throw line and they took their first free attempt with 23 seconds left in the half.

Ohio State has their nine-point lead due to making 46 percent of their shots and converting 5-of-6 three-point shots. The scoring for Ohio State has been balanced with William Buford leading the team with eight points and is a perfect 3-of-3 from the field and 2-of-2 from the line.

Kansas will need to have Taylor and Robinson step up their game and make their open shots if they want to get back in this game.

Kansas Vs. Ohio State, Final Four 2012: Game Time, TV Schedule

Now that the dust has settled on the Kentucky win over Louisville in the first national semi-final, the official time can be corrected and posted for the second game. That means Ohio State and Kansas will tip off just a few minutes later than first believed with an official game time of 8:05pm Central Time. Thomas Robinson and Jared Sullinger will lead their teams into tonight with the hopes of taking on the Wildcats on Monday for the national title. Here's all the info you need to catch tonight's action.

Game Date/Time: Saturday, March 30, 8:05 p.m. CT

Location: Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, L.A.

TV: CBS

Radio: Dial Global Sports

Streaming: NCAA March Madness Live

Line: Ohio State (-2½)

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops and go visit Along the Olentangy for more Ohio State basketball. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

Defense Is Key For Kansas Getting Past Ohio State

The last time the Kansas Jayhawks played the Ohio St. Buckeyes it was Kansas who got the win in part to Ohio State not having star player Jared Sullinger in the lineup. This time around Kansas is a 2.5 point underdog with Ohio State at full strength. While Ohio State does have many offensive weapons like Sullinger and Deshaun Thomas, Kansas has great defensive front court in Jeff Withey and Thomas Robinson who could be the difference.

Sports Illustrated's Luke Winn goes beyond pointing out the obvious that Kansas is better with Robinson and Withey on the court at the same time, but he breaks down the win over North Carolina which featured 70 possessions. The difference is huge when the two play on the court at the same time:

On the 35 Robinson-Withey possessions, the Tar Heels averaged 0.74 points per possession.

On the other 35 possessions, UNC averaged 1.17 PPP. To put this in context: Had Carolina's offense played the entire game at its Withey-Robinson rate, it would have scored just 52 points. Had Carolina's offense played the entire game at its other rate, it would have scored 82 points.

To put it in a different context: Against the Withey-Robinson combo, Carolina's offense scored at a Towson-like level. As in, a worst-in-Division-I level. When Carolina's offense faced just one of KU's two posts, it scored at a Kentucky-like level. As in, a second-best-in-D-I level.

Tyshawn Taylor Is 'Quite Confident' In His Abilities Versus Aaron Craft

The Ohio State Buckeyes and the Kansas Jayhawks are set to do battle later on this Saturday evening, and while many people have discussed what the big men will do, the real showdown that could decide the game could be between Tyshawn Taylor and Aaron Craft.

For Taylor, the man has played college basketball in Lawrence that many peaks and valleys would find envious. Now at the precipice of a national championship, he must go through a point guard he's seen earlier this season.

Tyshawn Taylor's thoughts on the defensive capabilities of Ohio State point guard Aaron Craft in a rematch:

"As many questions I'm answering about how good he is on defense -- he must be. That's all I'm talking about" said Kansas' bubbly and ever-candid senior point guard. Earlier, told of an Ohio State player's observation that Craft was the superior defender, Taylor replied: "He's great. I'm just way too confident in my abilities to give him that much credit. I guess I'll have to see for myself."

On playing against Ohio State in December with a torn meniscus, and how things have changed:

"From December 10th to now, I think I'm a completely different player," Taylor said. "I'm looking forward to the challenge even more so than I was before -- and I still feel like I played a pretty solid game."

Bill Self on the growth of Tyshawn Taylor, from his fight with the KU football team to now being a senior leader:

"I really like this kid," Self said of Taylor last week. "I think he's been about as big a treat to coach as anybody I've ever had. And I've always been fond of guys that have to go through some stuff to get where they eventually end up and he's had to go through some stuff. He's been a treat to be around. He's emerged as one of the better leaders we have had since I've been here."

Kansas and Ohio State are scheduled to tip at 7:49pm Central Time, and the most exciting matchup could end up being Taylor vs. Craft.

For more on the Final Four match-up between the Jayhawks and Buckeyes, check out SB Nation Kansas City, SB Nation's college basketball page and this StoryStream. For team news and info, head over to Rock Chalk Talk and Along The Olentangy.

2012 Final Four: Jared Sullinger Talks About The Rematch Vs. Kansas, Missing The First Game

In a rematch of their contest three months ago at Phog Allen Fieldhouse in Lawrence, Kansas, the Kansas Jayhawks and the Ohio State Buckeyes will do battle with one another. While their previous game was merely a contest to prove each other's mettle versus a top notch non-conference opponent, now it can serve as a learning tool for a chance to play for a national championship on Monday night.

Kansas defeated Ohio State 78-67 back in December, but the Buckeyes were without the services of a 100% Jared Sullinger. Now, three months later, both teams are healthy and ready to do battle one more time. Sullinger spoke to the media about the rematch and the potential matchup with Kansas center Jeff Withey.

Jared Sullinger on being disappointed on not being able to play vs. KU in December:

I was very disappointed, but I coudn't show it in front of my teammates. Coach says they look at me for an energy boost, so I can't show that anything's wrong. When I got there, I tried stretching my back out and seeing if I could do certain squats and what not. It was hurtful, but my teammates needed to see me out there clapping it up and rooting them on.

Sullinger on the matchup with KU center Jeff Withey:

Jeff Withey is a great basketball player. 7-footer, can finish around the rim and can block shots. He's the type of player you want on your basketball team because he can make a team go with his presence and being out on the floor. Everyone's making a big deal about Thomas Robinson vs. Jared Sullinger. But really its Kansas vs. Ohio State, let the best team win.

Sullnger's back to full strength now, and Ohio State will be facing a team that has evolved quite a bit since December. KU vs. OSU will be the second game in Saturday's semifinal, so stay tuned for more.

For more on the Final Four match-up between the Jayhawks and Buckeyes, check out SB Nation Kansas City, SB Nation's college basketball page and this StoryStream. For team news and info, head over to Rock Chalk Talk and Along The Olentangy.

Final Four 2012: Schedule, Start Times, TV Coverage

Kentucky versus Louisville. Ohio State versus Kansas. These are the Final Four in New Orleans hoping to vie for a spot in the NCAA Tournament championship game on Monday night and it all starts this evening on CBS. This is a Final Four steeped in history and the winning traditions of all four schools will have a chance for further bragging rights here in 2012.

For those wanting to know the ins and outs of tonight's games in terms of where and when you can find it, we have all of the info you want below:

Kentucky-Louisville Game Time: 5:09 p.m. CT

Kansas-Ohio State Game Time: 7:49 p.m. CT

Location: Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana

TV: CBS

Radio: Dial Global Sports

Streaming: NCAA March Madness Live

For up-to-the-minute scores on all NCAA Tournament games, please check out SI.com's complete scoreboard.

For more on the Final Four match-up between the Jayhawks and Buckeyes, check out SB Nation Kansas City, SB Nation's college basketball page and this StoryStream. For team news and info, head over to Rock Chalk Talk and Along The Olentangy.

Final Four 2012: Ohio State's Jared Sullinger Could Be Slowed By Kansas Center Jeff Withey

The Kansas Jayhawks have already faced and defeated the Ohio State Buckeyes back in December, but the biggest asterisk associated with the win was the absence of OSU's best player Jared Sullinger. Now that the two are meeting again in the Final Four, KU can only hope for the same results while the Buckeyes are banking on Sullinger's return making the difference.

Yet Kansas has a player in the middle who could make a significant difference, even given Sullinger's presence. Jeff Withey of Kansas is exactly the kind of player that John Kampf says can affect Sullinger's game and approach. Kampf writes

A lot of people are anticipating the showdown between Ohio State's Jared Sullinger and Kansas' Thomas Robinson, a pair of AP All-Americans. Of bigger interest might be Sullinger against Kansas 7-footer Jeff Withey. Sullinger is a beast in the paint, averaging 17.6 points and 9.1 rebounds per game. But he sometimes (all right, often) struggles against taller players with longer wingspans — which is exactly what Withey is. Withey averaged 3.5 blocks in 24.4 minutes per game. Even if he doesn't block a lot of shots vs. OSU, he could change enough of them to make a difference.

Withey's consistency has been an issue at times, but there's no denying his ability to use his size well when he's on. He had three blocks last game against North Carolina and an incredible 10 blocks against NC State in the Sweet 16. It should be a great match-up to watch.

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops and go visit Along the Olentangy for more Ohio State basketball. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

NCAA Mens' Final Four, 2012: Kansas Vs. Ohio State Odds Update

The Kansas Jayhawks will enter Saturday's Final Four contest with Ohio State as an underdog in a NCAA Tournament game, a rarity for KU. The Jayhawks have only been considered underdogs by Vegas in nine games over the last four seasons (2-9 record straight up), and now they'll play Ohio State with a 2.5 point spread, with a total of 136.5 points.

Kansas enters the game with a 31-6 season record, but are barely over .500 against the spread (18-17-1). The 31-7 Buckeyes have been a little bit more consistent, finishing 20-14 against the spread. While most of America is betting against KU, they're 9-1 off of a win this season, while OSU is only 6-4.

For more on the Final Four match-up between the Jayhawks and Buckeyes, check out SB Nation Kansas City, SB Nation's college basketball page and this StoryStream. For team news and info, head over to Rock Chalk Talk and Along The Olentangy.

Final Four Prediction 2012: Ohio State Favored Over Kansas By SB Nation

The first time they played this season, the Kansas Jayhawks took care of the Ohio State Buckeyes fairly easily in a 78-67 win back in early December. Thomas Robinson had 21 points on his way toward a possible Player of the Year caliber season, but the Buckeyes were without Jared Sullinger. It’s that factor among other things that has SB Nation’s Bill Callahan picking Ohio State this time around.

Callahan writes, “I don’t know if it was because they knew they were playing without their star, but Ohio State simply did not bring the intensity on the defensive end in that game that they did the rest of the year. It wasn’t just Tyshawn Taylor getting into the lane and creating, it was Travis Releford slashing through the defense and finishing easily at the rim, Elijah Johnson getting clear look after clear look from the outside, and various Jayhawks getting easy put-back points. I’m not sure how much of that you can credit Sullinger’s absence for, but obviously it can’t happen again.”

His final prediction is Ohio State to beat Kansas 80-76.

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops and go visit Along the Olentangy for more Ohio State basketball. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

Final Four 2012, Ohio State Vs. Kansas: TV Schedule, Game Time And More

The Kansas Jayhawks are playing in their first Final Four since 2008 and will be going up against the Ohio St. Buckeyes. To make it this far both teams have multiple star players on their team with Kansas having Tyshawn Taylor and Thomas Robinson while Ohio State having Jared Sullinger.

Those are not the only players for either team, each squad has many players that can strike up and have a big game. For Kansas those other key players are Elijah Johnson and defensive specialist Jeff Withey.

Ohio State bring more scoring to the game outside of Sullinger, they also have DeShaun Thomas who averages 16 per game and William Buford averages 14.

There are multiple players on either side that can step up and make a difference.

SB Nation's Kansas blog Rock Chalk Talk presents their keys to the game for Kansas and here is possibly the most important key:

Pack it in on defense:

Ohio State's two best scorers are no doubt Jared Sullinger and DeShaun Thomas. Each has the ability to shoot the three (and deep twos) but both would prefer to make their living inside. Not to mention that as a team Ohio State is very reluctant to shoot threes: they were 311th nationally in taking threes this year, and they were 223rd in three point percentage. They can no doubt get hot from outside, but daring them to beat Kansas from outside would lessen the defensive pressure on Withey and Robinson, and would allow the Jayhawks to double team both Thomas and Sullinger.

Game Date/Time: Saturday, March 30, 8:49 p.m. ET

Location: Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, L.A.

TV: CBS

Radio: Dial Global Sports

Streaming: NCAA March Madness Live

Line: Ohio State (-2½)

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops and go visit Along the Olentangy for more Ohio State basketball. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

VIDEO: SB Nation Predicts Ohio State Over Kansas

When the Kansas Jayhawks and Ohio St. Buckeyes played earlier this season Kansas won by 11 points, but Ohio State was without their star player Jared Sullinger. This time around the game will likely be different with Sullinger in the lineup.

SB Naton's Bill Connelly discusses this matchup in great depth. He goes on to discuss how having Ohio State getting Sullinger will be very key since when the two teams played last time Ohio State was able to force turnovers and they were able to shoot the ball well the first time around.

As for Kansas Connelly talks about how they do not win pretty and that Kansas struggles at the free throw line and three-point shooting. Plus, they are not the best at controlling the ball or forcing turnovers.

In the end Connelly predicts Ohio State to win in a close game.

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops, and for coverage on Ohio State go visit Along the Olentangy. For more on the 2012 NCAA Tournament bracket, stick around SB Nation's NCAA Tournament hub, and remember to pick up our printable NCAA Tournament bracket.

2012 Final Four: Thomas Robinson, Jared Sullinger May Struggle In NBA

Thomas Robinson has been a massive help when it comes to the Kansas Jayhawks reaching the Final Four where they are set to face the Ohio State Buckeyes, who have been aided by the play of Jared Sullinger. The two players have likely impressed NBA scouts and have climbed up draft boards for next year. However, SB Nation's Jonathan Tjarks questions whether or not they're worthy of high draft picks based on what they've done in the tournament.

As a base for his argument, he sites the case of Evan Turner and Greg Monroe. Turner was surrounded by fellow Buckeyes and great shooters David Lighty, William Buford, Jon Diebler and was named the National Player of the Year and became the No. 2 overall pick. Monroe, on the other hand, and Georgetown were knocked out of the tournament in the first round that year and people wondered about his intensity. He fell to the No. 7 overall pick that year.

And now?

And while Monroe has developed into a 16/10 6'11+ power forward in Detroit, Turner has struggled playing off the ball for a Philadelphia team that needs perimeter defense and shot-making (his two biggest weaknesses) next to Andre Iguodala and Jrue Holiday.

While Tjarks believes that Sullinger's problems are on defense, he believes Robinson future troubles could be on offense.

Robinson, meanwhile, is almost the inverse of Sullinger: an elite athlete with a rudimentary offensive skill-set. He gets a lot of his points on hustle plays and pure strength and athleticism, but he can struggle to create his own shot against NBA-caliber frontlines like NC State (7-17 shooting) and UNC (6-16).

The biggest red flag was his game against Kentucky earlier this season, where he scored 11 points on 5-12 shooting and was generally an offensive non-factor. When he couldn't bulldoze his opponents and dunk on their heads, there wasn't much left.

Just like in football, college stars are not guaranteed to have success in the pros and Robinson and Sullinger have some warning signs of being "busts" in the NBA. Of course, there is no accurate magic eight-ball when it comes to these things, but things can be accurately predicted enough based on similar players who have traveled down similar paths in the past.

College stardom is no guarantee of professional success, so when Robinson and Sullinger face off on Saturday as the faces of two of the premier programs in college basketball, don't let their ability to dominate on the biggest stage in the NCAA blind you. There's a good chance this weekend is as good as it's ever going to be for both.

For more on the Kansas Jayhawks, head to Rock Chalk Talk, and for more coverage on the Final Four, follow SB Nation Kansas City's StoryStream.

Thomas Robinson Finishes Second In POY Voting To Anthony Davis

Kansas Jayhawks forward Thomas Robinson didn't win the Player of the Year award this season, since everyone knew that belonged to Anthony Davis, but Robinson did finish second in the voting with only half as many votes as the Kentucky Wildcats star.

Davis received 43 votes Friday from the 65-member national media panel that selects the weekly Top 25 prior to the NCAA tournament. Robinson received 20 votes, while Michigan St. Spartans big man Draymond Green received the two remaining votes.

Davis is the first freshman to win the award, joining the company of former Texas Longhorns standout Kevin Durant who did it in 2007. Robinson still has a host of accolades on the season, since he was the first unanimous All-American pick since Blake Griffin in 2009. Also, if the Jayhawks take care of business against the Ohio St. Buckeyes on Saturday, and the Wildcats defeat the Louisville Cardinals as expected, Robinson and Davis will have a chance to go head-to-head on the biggest stage in college basketball.

Read more about the Jayhawks at Rock Chalk Talk.

2012 NCAA Final Four: Did Bill Self Coach Up A Team With Lower Expectations?

This wasn't necessarily supposed to be a Final Four team, or at least that wasn't the initial expectation was for the Kansas Jayhawks coming into the 2011-12 season.

The Jayhawks didn't have any superstars in the beginning, before Thomas Robinson exploded on to the scene and became the first unanimous Associated Press All-American pick since Blake Griffin in 2009. Tyshawn Taylor, though having his struggles, is also a standout performer.

So, is Bill Self the reason for this Jayhawks squad going far above and beyond the realm of expectations this season and making it all the way to the Final Four?

Dennis Dodd of CBSSports.com caught up with Self on Thursday to ask him how he did it.

"Taking a team with lower expectations and performing pretty well gives the appearance you're doing a better job coaching," Self said.

But then again, maybe he is. Usually, the Kansas teams that make these deep runs in the NCAA tournament are loaded with NBA talent, or at least perceived NBA talent. Not so much here.

Read more about the Jayhawks at Rock Chalk Talk and SB Nation Kansas City.

2012 NCAA Final Four: SB Nation's Kansas Vs. Ohio State Analysis

SB Nation's college sports numbers wizard Bill C. has a very, very intricate breakdown of what to expect from the Jayhawks against Ohio State this Saturday night. With an intricate look at all phases of the match-up between Ohio State and Kansas, Bill C.'s analysis is guaranteed to educate even the most hardcore Jayhawk.

On KU's strengths:

Thanks mostly to Thomas Robinson and Jeff Withey, Kansas ranks 13th in Off. 2PT%. Plus, they rank well in just about every defensive category not named "Def. 3PT%." They hold opponents to the lowest 2PT% in the country, and they rank ninth in Block Rate. They are also quite experienced, with juniors and seniors playing 93 percent of their primary rotation minutes.

And their weaknesses:

This Kansas team does have more weaknesses than recent squads, particularly on the offensive end. They have players who can get hot from 3-point range -- Tyshawn Taylor, Conner Teahan, Elijah Johnson -- but they rank just 152nd overall in the category because none of those players have consistently found paydirt. Meanwhile, their guards aren't actually very good at free throws (Taylor and Johnson have combined to make just 68 percent of their freebies), leading to a FT% ranking of just 176th. And while it has improved, their ball-handling has left something to be desired.

His final prediction? Click here for the full breakdown.

For more on the Kansas Jayhawks and the Final Four, check out Rock Chalk Talk and SB Nation's college basketball page.

Kansas Vs. Ohio State Prediction: SBNation Thinks Jayhawks Will Fall

Over at SBNation.com, Bomani Jones has his prediction up for who he thinks will win Kansas' Final Four match-up with Ohio State:

Many forgot about Ohio State while Michigan State took the Big Ten, beating the Buckeyes twice in the process. But here they are, still with a talented starting five, and still with a smothering defense. They're simply a very good team, and they're matched up against Kansas, whose big name belies its overachievement this season.

Jared Sullinger's matchups with Thomas Robinson and Jeff Withey will probably get the most attention, but Kansas' chances hinge on how well Tyshawn Taylor handles being guarded by Aaron Craft all night. If Taylor keeps it together, the Jayhawks can win. If not, it will be a frustrating night for Bill Self. My guess? It will be a frustrating night for Bill Self.

Prediction: Ohio State 69, Kansas 64

As Jones points out, Craft has become famous for his ability to force turnovers and Tyshawn Taylor isn't always the most under control PG in the world.

While Sullinger has gotten most of the press for the Buckeyes this season, if Craft can keep the Jayhawks from smoothly getting into their offensive sets, Bill Self could lose whatever is left of his real hair on Saturday night.

2012 NCAA Final Four: Kansas Led By Thomas Robinson, Tyshawn Taylor

It's a surprise to exactly nobody that both Thomas Robinson and Tyshawn Taylor played well in Kansas' upset victory over the North Carolina Tar Heels in the Elite 8. Robinson and Taylor have been Kansas' top two players this year -- and they'll need to continue to show up and play as well as they can if Kansas is going to claim the 2012 national title.

Robinson is not only Kansas' top scorer this year, but he leads the team in rebounding as well. Robinson is averaging 17.7 points per game and 11.8 rebounds per game.

Meanwhile, Taylor is is second on the team in scoring, averaging 16.7 points per game. Taylor also leads Kansas in assists, averaging 4.7 assists per game.

Without question, Bill Self needs both Robinson and Taylor to be at their best on Saturday when the Jayhawks take on the Ohio State Buckeyes. If they aren't, Kansas fans might be saying goodnight to their Jayhawks for this season.

For more on the Jayhawks and their quest for the 2012 title, be sure to head over to Rock Chalk Talk and join the discussion.

2012 NCAA Final Four, Ohio State: Sullinger, Buford Among Keys To Buckeye Success

The excitement of Kansas' Elite Eight victory over the North Carolina Tar Heels is starting to fade as the week progresses. That excitement quickly turns into anxiousness and anticipation for the Final Four, where the Kansas Jayhawks will take on a fellow No. 2 seed -- the Ohio State Buckeyes.

The Buckeyes lost to Kansas earlier this year, though that game doesn't mean a whole lot, as Jared Sullinger didn't play for Ohio State.

Bill Self addressed the media on Tuesday, and as you'd expect, he spoke highly of the Buckeyes, and singled out a few of their players as keys to their success.

"Their team has gotten better. People should talk about (sophomore forward) Jared (Sullinger) because he's terrific. He's an All-American without question, but I think (senior guard William) Buford is pretty good and (sophomore forward) Deshaun Thomas is averaging 22 points per game in the tournament. (Sophomore guard Aaron) Craft is as good as any guard around and (sophomore guard Lenzelle) Smith (Jr.) has played exceptionally well throughout Big Ten play. Their bench is good too, and they're big. Jared is terrific and deserves the accolades, but they're not a one-man band."

Self is correct that they're not a one-man band, but Sullinger is certainly a special talent. In Ohio State's Sweet 16 win over Cincinnati, Sullinger posted a double double, scoring 23 points while grabbing 11 rebounds. Sullinger scored 19 against Syracuse in the Elite 8 as well, and pulled in seven rebounds as Ohio State punched its ticket to New Orleans.

Still, Ohio State will need a supporting cast to play well around Sullinger -- and it looks like Self is cognizant of that.

For more on the Jayhawks, be sure to head over to Rock Chalk Talk and join the discussion.

2012 Final Four: Bill Self Holds Press Conference

The Kansas Jayhawks punched their ticket to the 2012 Final Four on Sunday after defeating the North Carolina Tar Heels. It's certainly an exciting time to be a Jayhawks fan.

Kansas' coach Bill Self met with the media on Tuesday at Allen Fieldhouse to talk about the season, and the upcoming challenge against Ohio State.

As expected, Self was nothing but complimentary about the Buckeyes:

"Their team has gotten better. People should talk about (sophomore forward) Jared (Sullinger) because he's terrific. He's an All-American without question, but I think (senior guard William) Buford is pretty good and (sophomore forward) Deshaun Thomas is averaging 22 points per game in the tournament. (Sophomore guard Aaron) Craft is as good as any guard around and (sophomore guard Lenzelle) Smith (Jr.) has played exceptionally well throughout Big Ten play. Their bench is good too, and they're big. Jared is terrific and deserves the accolades, but they're not a one-man band."

That's pretty much what you'd expect Self to say, and it's good that Self isn't just focused on Jared Sullinger. Self is also aware that Kansas' victory over Ohio State earlier this year is essentially meaningless. When asked if people can take anything away from that game, Self said:

"You can, but the circumstances are completely different. This might as well be a whole new year since the last time we played them. Jared (Sullinger) didn't play which is the biggest thing."

Self, of course, is exactly right. Even if Sullinger had played, the result of the prior meeting is inconsequential on the Final Four matchup.

For more on all things Jayhawks, be sure to head over to Rock Chalk Talk and join the discussion.

2012 Final Four: Dick Vitale Picks Ohio State Over Kansas

Dick Vitale, affectionately known as Dickie V, is perhaps the most iconic announcer in college athletics, and it's no surprise that he's come out on ESPN to make his Final Four selections for this upcoming weekend. Unfortunately for Kansas fans, he doesn't have the Jayhawks going any farther than what they already have, hitting the wall known as Jared Sulllinger and the rest of the Ohio State Buckeyes roster.

Ohio State is certainly going to be one of the best opponents that Kansas has played all season, and they could be a real contender for the crown, but Kansas has been taken a bit lightly since the very beginning of the season when preseason rankings had the team in a possible rebuilding year and surrendering their streak of Big 12 conference titles to Baylor. Instead, Bill Self and company enjoyed their eighth straight regular season season title.

For the other half, Vitale picks Kentucky to beat Lousville. Check the video below for the complete breakdown:

Final Four 2012: For This Kansas Team, It's Will As Much As Skill That Wins The Day

It was a classic NCAA Tournament matchup: Kansas vs. North Carolina, two of the three winningest programs in college basketball history; Bill Self, the current Jayhawk head coach against former Kansas coach Roy Williams, now sporting Carolina blue.

Sunday's Midwest Regional championship game between the two schools, a battle for the final spot in this year's NCAA Basketball Men's Final Four, was more than worthy of the stellar historical reputations on the hardwood of these two outstanding college programs. The game was a tight, back-and-forth affair that went right down to the wire, despite the 13-point margin, in favor of Kansas, indicated by the final score.

With the Jayhawks holding a precarious one-point lead, at 68-67, with just under four minutes to play, junior guard Elijah Johnson buried a three-point shot, sparking what turned out to be a deciding 12-0 run to close out the game.

"It was a game of runs," Williams said, "and we didn't answer the last one."

If you are a Kansas fan, the first half of Sunday's game with North Carolina was highly reminiscent of the 1988 National Championship game against then-Big Eight rival Oklahoma. In the '88 game, the Jayhawks and heavily favored Sooners put on a first-half shooting display that ended in a 50-50 deadlocked score after the first 20 minutes.

On Sunday at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, Williams' Tar Heels were on fire in the first half, blistering the nets at an unbelievable 64 percent scoring clip. Kansas was only a fraction worse, with a 56 percent shooting percentage. Like in their Final Four championship season in 1988, the Jayhawks went to the locker room at halftime with a tie score (47-47). At one five-minute stretch in the opening half, the two teams combined for 15 consecutive baskets.

In the second half, the Jayhawks switched strengths from offense to defense, which has been the key to a number of their 33 wins in this improbable season. Kansas turned up the defensive screws in the second half, and it definitely affected the Tar Heels ability to get the ball inside and find ways to score. In the second half, North Carolina's shooting percentage went from boiling hot to ice cold as the Jayhawks held the Heels to a putrid 23 percent of its field goal attempts.

In addition to playing outstanding defense when it mattered the most, Kansas also won the battle of the boards, coming away with six more rebounds than their opponent from North Carolina, one of the best rebounding teams in the country coming into the game.

This was only the second time Self has coached Kansas against its former coach of 15 years. Kansas has won both times. The Jayhawks stunned the Tar Heels, jumping out to a 24-point advantage in the opening half in the national semifinals in 2008, on the way to their third national championship. Shortly after leaving Kansas in 2003 to take the head job at his alma mater, Williams declared that he would never schedule a regular-season game with his "second favorite team." Given that he has yet to beat the Jayhawks, you can appreciate why he feels that way.

The all-time series between these two legendary basketball programs dates back to the 1957 National Championship, a game won by North Carolina in three overtimes over a Kansas team that featured Wilt Chamberlain. Since that time, the Jayhawks and Tar Heels have met nine more times on the hardwood, with North Carolina owning a 6-4 advantage.

So now it's on to the Big Easy and the Mercedes Superdome to face Ohio State, one of only two No. 1 seeds to make it all the way through to this year's Final Four. The Jayhawks already own a victory over the Buckeyes this season, a 78-67 victory at Allen Fieldhouse in December. Although that win may be a bit misleading because it was over a Buckeye team that did not have its All-American forward, Jared Sullinger, in the lineup. Sullinger sat out the Kansas game with an injury, but he will be on the floor and a definite force for the Kansas defense to contend with when these two teams tangle for a second time this season on Saturday in one of the two national semifinals.

The Jayhawks, who are playing in their 23rd consecutive NCAA Tournament, are making their 14th appearance in the Final Four, the fifth most of any team in college basketball. It will be the second trip to the Final Four for a Bill Self-coached Kansas team. The last time, of course, was in 2008, when the Jayhawks won it all, defeating Memphis in overtime in the championship final.

Kansas has had better teams with greater individual talent that didn't make it even this far, but few of those teams worked as hard and had the will and team chemistry that this Jayhawk squad has shown. With no starters from last year's Elite Eight team returning in 2011-12 and three highly touted freshmen recruits being declared ineligible for the season, there were many, including some of the Jayhawk faithful, who felt Kansas would be fortunate to defend its conference championship for an eighth consecutive season.

"I think this would have been a year that if we got to the second weekend, most Kansas faithful would have been happy," Self said in his post-game comments. Like they have all season, this year's Kansas team, led by consensus AP First-Team All-American Thomas Robinson and senior guard Tyshawn Taylor, exceeded expectations, winning 30 or more games for a third consecutive season and for the fifth time in the last six years.

Kansas seemingly took a back seat to the Missouri Tigers throughout much of the current season. The Tigers won the Big 12 Tournament championship, had a higher national ranking and sported a better overall record than their rivals from the Sunflower State. But in the NCAA Tournament, which represents the pinnacle of the season for most Division I teams, Missouri fell victim to Norfolk State in their opening tournament game in one of the biggest upsets in this year's tournament, and the Jayhawks are still playing as one of the final four teams left standing out of the starting field of 68.

Heading into the final weekend of the 2011-12 college basketball season, three words quickly come to mind to describe the hoops season enjoyed by this group of Jayhawks: Resilient...Fearless...Defense. Kansas will need all three attributes, and a game like they had against North Carolina on offense, if they want to keep their season alive past Saturday and play for the school's fourth national championship and second in the Bill Self era.

As a dubious point of reference, KU is 1-1 against this year's Final Four teams. The Jayhawks defeated Ohio State but lost to No. 1 overall tournament seed Kentucky, 75-65, very early in the season in the Champions Classic Tournament in New York City.

This may be Self's least-talented and least impressive team on paper, but he will tell you he has never enjoyed coaching a team more than this one. "This team has played as close to its ceiling as it possibly could," he said.

The last Kansas team like this one took home the national championship trophy. Who's to say it can't happen a second time.

For more information:

For additional Big 12 sports news and information.

More news and information on Kansas Jayhawks' athletic teams and sports events.

Thomas Robinson First Unanimous All-American Since Blake Griffin

Kansas Jayhawks forward Thomas Robinson isn't just coming off an explosive 22-point performance in an Elite Eight victory against the North Carolina Tar Heels on Sunday. It was announced on Monday that Robinson is the first unanimous Associated Press All-American selection since Blake Griffin in 2009.

"It's a blessing to be named even in the same category as Blake Griffin," Robinson told the Associated Press. "For that to happen, I'm glad all the hard work is paying off."

The hard work is paying off so much so that Kansas is headed to the Final Four to play the Ohio St. Buckeyes in New Orleans with the Robinson averaging 17.9 points and 11.8 rebounds a game this season. Robinson gets the opportunity to go head-to-head with Jared Sullinger, who of course, was also selected to the All-American first team.

Missouri Tigers senior guard Marcus Denmon was selected to the second team. Denmon averaged 17.6 points a game this season before the Tigers' early exit from the NCAA Tournament.

Read more about the Kansas Jayhawks at Rock Chalk Talk.

Final Four 2012: Tyshawn Taylor Says Not To Worry About His Shooting

Thus far, the Kansas Jayhawks have bested Detroit, Purdue, North Carolina State and North Carolina without shooting the ball particularly well. Tyshawn Taylor has been off as the team has played in giant domed stadiums, and he’s going to have more of the same in the Final Four in New Orleans. Against the likes of Ohio State in the first national semi-final, KU will need his sweet stroke. The good news is that Taylor says that won’t be an issue.

"You know what, man, hopefully that can change in New Orleans," said Taylor. "But like I said (Saturday), I’m going to keep shooting it because I got to. I got to make the defense respect that. I got to keep them honest. I’m going to get it to fall. Don’t worry about it."

First National Semifinal: No. 1 Kentucky Wildcats vs. No. 4 Louisville Cardinals (6:09 p.m., CBS)

Second National Semifinal: No. 2 Kansas Jayhawks vs. No. 2 Ohio St. Buckeyes (8:49 p.m., CBS)

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops. For more on the 2012 NCAA Tournament bracket, stick around SB Nation's NCAA Tournament hub, and remember to pick up our printable NCAA Tournament bracket.

Kansas To Final Four: Bill Self Says 'I Love These Guys'

Bill Self is being mentioned in the National Coach of the Year conversation, and there’s no surprise there. After all, the Kansas Jayhawks were not supposed to be here in New Orleans at the Final Four. Yet this weekend, they are one of the last four pillars standing, along with Kentucky, Louisville and Ohio State. Self himself realizes the crazy nature of this season and says it’s provided the most fun he’s had to date with any team in KU’s storied history.

"I think this team’s probably played as close to its ceiling as any team I’ve had," Self said. "… I don’t think you can give 110 percent. I think all you can give is 100. And I think this team has given as close to 100 as any team that I’ve probably ever coached.

"I will say this: I don’t know if I ever enjoyed coaching a team more than this one. I love them. We fight, it’s combative sometimes, all of those things. But I love coaching these guys. … It is just remarkable to me to see them cutting down nets out here because this would not be the year that anybody would have thought we would do it. It’s a pretty cool feeling."

The Jayhawks lost the Morris twins, Marcus and Markieff, to the NBA and Josh Selby as well. Multiple graduate also thinned out the roster and left the team in the hands of Thomas Robinson and Tyshawn Taylor. While they were promising in their own way, no one could have expected a Final Four appearance. Yet here they are.

First National Semifinal: No. 1 Kentucky Wildcats vs. No. 4 Louisville Cardinals (6:09 p.m., CBS)

Second National Semifinal: No. 2 Kansas Jayhawks vs. No. 2 Ohio St. Buckeyes (8:49 p.m., CBS)

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops. For more on the 2012 NCAA Tournament bracket, stick around SB Nation's NCAA Tournament hub, and remember to pick up our printable NCAA Tournament bracket.

March Madness Bracket 2012: Printable Bracket Available For Final Four

The Final Four teams have now been determined. Fans of Ohio State, Louisville, Kentucky and now Kansas can all celebrate, and the rest of us can fill out brand new brackets for those of you obsessed enough that you make a new pool at each stage.

Get your new printable, updated bracket from SB Nation here.

The Kentucky Wildcats are favored over everyone, but with no strong Cinderella, it's anyone's game. Both match-ups should be very compelling, especially the Louisville, Kentucky rivalry game in the first national semi-final. Ohio State is playing incredibly well right now, but there's a lot of talk about the NBA game of Thomas Robinson and the coaching job that Bill Self is doing this season at KU, so that should be an incredible contest as well.

First National Semifinal: No. 1 Kentucky Wildcats vs. No. 4 Louisville Cardinals (6:09 p.m., CBS)

Second National Semifinal: No. 2 Kansas Jayhawks vs. No. 2 Ohio St. Buckeyes (8:49 p.m., CBS)

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops. For more on the 2012 NCAA Tournament bracket, stick around SB Nation's NCAA Tournament hub, and remember to pick up our printable NCAA Tournament bracket.

Final Four 2012: Kansas Bests Former Coach Roy Williams And North Carolina

The Kansas Jayhawks became the final of the four contenders in New Orleans hoping to take the 2012 NCAA Tournament title. To get here, they've taken an interesting path through familiar faces and close games to find Bill Self and company standing among the Final Four.

First, the Jayhawks took the University of Detroit out in the first round rather easily with a 65-50 win against the No. 15 seed. As the No. 2 seed, those victories are supposed to happen that way, but tell that to both Missouri and Duke who fell at this stage to Lehigh and Norfolk State, respectively.

A workmanlike Purdue played well against St. Mary's and earned the chance to take on Kansas in the second round, and the game came down to the wire as expected. Matt Painter's teams always played hard, efficient basketball and have made it to the second round, at least, in each of the last six seasons. The final score fell Kansas' way but not before a hard-fought 63-60 victory.

The next opponent was also close, as the red-hot North Carolina State Wolfpack met the Jayhawks in the Sweet 16. While the Wolfpack was the No. 11 seed and, consequently, the underdogs, they had already made their way through the ACC tournament and then through No. 3 seed Georgetown, so it was clear they were playing well at the perfect time. However, Kansas prevailed 60-57 behind Thomas Robinson's 18 points and 15 rebounds and Jeff Withey's incredible 10 blocked shots.

Finally, North Carolina presented the Elite 8 match-up and a familiar foe in Roy Williams. The former Kansas head coach said he was not interested in a home-and-home series with his former opponent because of the emotions there, and it was clear this was a very important game for both teams beyond just what was at stake on the court. However, Kansas took control in the second half and never looked back with an impressive 80-67 win.

Now they will face Ohio State for the right to play in the title game. This match-up will be the biggest yet since North Carolina was hampered by injuries, but KU has stepped up every time. Perhaps this is a magical season for Bill Self's team after all.

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops. For more on the 2012 NCAA Tournament bracket, stick around SB Nation's NCAA Tournament hub, and remember to pick up our printable NCAA Tournament bracket.

Final Four 2012 Schedule: Kansas To Take On Ohio State

The 2012 Final Four schedule is set with only one No. 1 seed making it to New Orleans in Kentucky who has had very few issues so far in this tournament and they are taking on in-state rival Louisville which should make the next week very interesting down in Kentucky.

As for the other side in the bracket Kansas takes on Ohio State who made it this far by upsetting the Syracuse Orange in the East regional final in one of the best games in the tournament. Kansas made it to the Final Four by playing some extremely well basketball and upset No. 1 seeded North Carolina Tar Heels.

The matchup in the Final Four that should be the most entertaining is going to be Ohio State's Jared Sullinger going up against Kansas' Thomas Robinson.

First National Semifinal: No. 1 Kentucky Wildcats vs. No. 4 Louisville Cardinals (6:09 p.m., CBS)

Second National Semifinal: No. 2 Kansas Jayhawks vs. No. 2 Ohio St. Buckeyes (8:49 p.m., CBS)

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops. For more on the 2012 NCAA Tournament bracket, stick around SB Nation's NCAA Tournament hub, and remember to pick up our printable NCAA Tournament bracket.

VIDEO: Kansas Moves Onto Final Four

The Kansas Jayhawks are on their way to New Orleans for the Final Four after using a big second half to dispatch No. 1 seed North Carolina Tar Heels 80-67. The Jayhawks are playing some of the best basketball over the past few weeks, and are primed to win another national title.

Nick Fasulo of SB Nation's college basketball blog Searching For Billy Edelin talks about Kansas' win over North Carolina, and he praises the improvement of Jeff Withey who was not seen as a very good player prior to the season. Withey had three blocks in the regional final and was named Big 12 defensive player of the year.

Also, what is obvious but important to mention is that if North Carolina had Kendall Marshall in the lineup they more than likely would have beaten Kanas, but UNC did not have a player who could replace his production.

Kansas Vs. UNC Final Score: Jayhawks Pull Away Late To Win 80-67, Advance To Final Four

The No. 2 seeded Kansas Jayhawks defeated the No. 1 seeded North Carolina Tar Heels 80-67 and advance to the Final Four. The first half of this game saw both teams shooting well over 50 percent from the field and being knotted up at 47 at the half.

Kansas Vs. UNC Halftime Score: Game Tied At 47

The final berth for the Final Four is on the line Sunday evening between the Kansas Jayhawks and North Carolina Tar Heels is living up to the hype as the game is tied at 47 apiece.

This game has featured each team going on big runs with Kansas having a 12-2 run to go up 40-33, but North Carolina immediately started their own run by outscoring Kansas 10-2 to go up 43-42. Kansas' Elijah Johnson tied the game at. 47 with six seconds left on a nice drive across the court to put up the tying layup.

Both teams are shooting the ball extremely well with Kansas hitting 56 percent of their shots, but North Carolina has shot even better and has made 63 percent of their shots in the first half.

Thomas Robinson is leading Kansas with 14 points at the half, and here are his highlights so far:

UNC Vs. Kansas: Kendall Marshall To Sit Out Against Kansas

North Carolina point guard Kendall Marshall won't be playing on Sunday against the Kansas Jayhawks according to a report by insidecarolina.com. Marshall is recovering from a wrist injury that he suffered earlier in the tournament.

Marshall had surgery on the wrist and was listed as a game-time decision for today's game against Kansas. Without him the Tar Heels are likely to start freshman Stillman White once again.

Marshall's absence leaves White with some big shoes to fill as he will be relied upon to direct the Carolina squad while it is on one of the biggest stages in the NCAA Tournament. White played 32 minutes in the Tar Heels' overtime win against Ohio finishing with two points, six assists and no turnovers.

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops and Carolina March for everything on North Carolina basketball. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

Roy Williams Not Interested In Annual UNC-Kansas Series

Roy Williams isn't interested in a potential home-and-home series between his North Carolina Tar Heels and his former Kansas Jayhawks. Williams says that a trip into Allen Fieldhouse as an opposing coach would be too much emotionally.

"I don't want to go in there as the coach of the opposing team."

Williams cites the number of fond memories he has as the coach of Kansas and doesn't want anything to spoil them. Current Kansas coach Bill Self on the other hand wouldn't mind to see his Jayhawks and the Tar Heels get together more often.

"I understand why we don't, if we don't. But I certainly think that it would be a great, great series,'' Self said. "... Certainly neither place has a hard time selling out, but we could certainly raise the price of season tickets a couple bucks."

No doubt given the history of the two programs and that of Williams, a potential Kansas-North Carolina matchup in the regular season would become one of the most sought after tickets on either team's regular season slate.

Go check out Rock Chalk Talk for all things regarding Kansas hoops and Carolina March for everything on North Carolina basketball. For more on the 2012 NCAA Basketball tournament, head over to SB Nation's March Madness hub for all things NCAA basketball.

March Madness 2012, UNC Vs. Kansas: TV Schedule, Game Time And More

Kansas is looking to upset No. 1 seed North Carolina and head to the Final Four.