College Basketball Power 10: Villanova Starts 2017 On Top

Dec 13, 2016; Villanova, PA, USA; Villanova Wildcats guard Josh Hart (3) gets congratulations from head coach Jay Wright and guard Jalen Brunson (1) after leaving the game late in the second half against the Temple Owls at The Pavilion. Villanova defeated Temple, 78-57. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Kansas (12-1)

Kansas started conference play against a one-loss TCU team. Many expected Kansas to blowout TCU, but the Horned Frogs kept close and only trailed by four at halftime and lost by a mere six points, 86-80.

Everyone in their seven man rotation stepped up, and Kansas still blocked three shots despite losing Udoka Azubuike for the season.

Five players scored in double-figures for Kansas, as Carlton Bragg Jr and Josh Jackson, the only two players not to score at least 10 points, combined for nine points and 11 rebounds.

More importantly, it gave Kansas a late game test. The Jayhawks won their previous seven games by double-digits, therefore they haven’t been tested late in games.

Even though they have a veteran rotation, it’s important experience for a key player in freshman Josh Jackson.

Kansas blew an eight-point lead with 3:23 left in the game and was outscored 8-6 from that point, but they held on.

Besides, in the last 3:23, Kansas held TCU to 2-of-5 shooting from the field, however only went 2-of-4 from the free-throw line.

It’s evident that there was some confusion and rust for a team who hasn’t played in a lot of close games this season.

Still, Kansas hung on and showed how dominating they can be on both ends.

Kansas will host Kansas State and Texas Tech this week.