Kansas 75, New Mexico State 56

Kansas is pretty good, but it’s also smart enough to learn its lesson.

Every year it seems there’s a rash of upsets on the first day of the tournament, and by the time Friday rolls around, the top seeds wake up and realize they heed to be focused from the opening tip. That’s what the Jayhawks brought to the floor, turning in a workman-like effort to cruise to a win vs. New Mexico State. KU didn’t do anything special, it didn’t fill the highlight reel. It just won without really breaking a sweat and keeping the Jayhawks fresh for the third round.

The whole state of Kansas will be rooting for Wichita State this afternoon vs. Indiana. The Shockers have been itching for a shot at the Jayhawks for years, and everybody in the state wants to see those two play. They’ll probably get their wish.