The Big 12 Landscape (As of Feb 24, 2026)
The race for the double-bye in the Big 12 Tournament is tightening up. With the win tonight, Kansas maintains a strong position to secure one of those top four spots.
Current Standings
Arizona: 12–2 (Conference) | 24–3 (Overall)
Kansas: 11–4 | 22–6
Houston: 11–4 | 23–4
Iowa State: 10–4 | 21–6
Texas Tech: 10–4 | 20–7
Note: Finishing in the Top 4 is crucial this year because it bypasses the first two rounds of the Big 12 Tournament, allowing players like Darren Peterson to rest those reported cramps before the postseason grind.
Historical Context: The “Monday Night” Dominance
The Jayhawks’ success on Big Monday isn’t just a meme; the numbers behind it are staggering. Bill Self has turned Allen Fieldhouse into a fortress on these specific nights.
Consecutive Monday Home Wins: 62 (dating back to 2001).
Average Margin of Victory: 19.2 points.
Bill Self’s Career Record at Home: Over 95% winning percentage.
Addressing the “Cursed” Narrative
Nick, don’t worry—the stats back up your “curse” theory more than you think. In the 2017-2018 season, Kansas did indeed have a rare “vulnerable” stretch at home. Losing to Arizona State, Washington (in KC), and Oklahoma State in a short window was statistically the most unlikely event in the Bill Self era, occurring with less than a 0.5% probability based on historical home-court advantage.
The Road Ahead
The Jayhawks have a massive test this Saturday in Tucson. Arizona is currently leading the pack, and their depth—even with the potential absence of Koa Peat—remains a challenge.
Would you like me to look up the specific historical head-to-head records between Kansas and Arizona to see how they’ve fared in late-season matchups?