KU's Precarious Top Spot, Flagg's Costly Turnovers, More from the Champions Classic

Jayhawks Hold on to No. 1 Despite Sloppy Play

The University of Kansas Jayhawks escaped Madison Square Garden with a 69-64 victory over the Michigan State Spartans on Tuesday night, but their performance left much to be desired.

The Jayhawks, who entered the game as the No. 1 team in the country, committed 18 turnovers and shot just 38.5% from the field.

Sophomore guard Remy Martin led the way for Kansas with 17 points, but he also had six turnovers.

Junior forward Jalen Wilson added 15 points and 10 rebounds for the Jayhawks.

The Spartans were led by senior guard Tyson Walker, who scored 22 points.

The Jayhawks' victory was their second in as many games in the Champions Classic.

They defeated the Duke Blue Devils on Tuesday night.

The Spartans fell to 1-1 in the Champions Classic.

They lost to the Kentucky Wildcats on Monday night.

Flagg's Costly Turnovers

Kansas guard Gradey Flagg had a rough night against the Spartans.

The sophomore committed a career-high seven turnovers.

Flagg's turnovers led to several easy baskets for the Spartans.

He was also just 1-of-6 from the field.

Flagg's poor performance was a major reason why the Jayhawks struggled to put away the Spartans.

He needs to play better if the Jayhawks want to maintain their No. 1 ranking.

More from the Champions Classic

In other Champions Classic action, the Kentucky Wildcats defeated the Duke Blue Devils 78-69.

Freshman forward Cason Wallace led the way for the Wildcats with 19 points.

Freshman guard Tyrese Proctor added 18 points for Kentucky.

The Blue Devils were led by junior guard Jeremy Roach, who scored 18 points.

The Wildcats' victory was their first in the Champions Classic since 2018.

The Blue Devils fell to 0-2 in the Champions Classic.

The Champions Classic is an annual college basketball event that features four of the top teams in the country.

The event is held at Madison Square Garden in New York City.