November 21, 2005

Kansas Falls to No. 10 Arizona in EA SPORTS Maui Invitational Opener

Nov. 21, 2005

LAHAINA, Hawaii –

The University of Kansas could not overcome a 16 point first half deficit and fell to No. 10 Arizona, 61-49, Monday night at the EA SPORTS Maui Invitational. The Jayhawks record drops to 1-1 on the season.<?xml:namespace prefix=”o” ns=”urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office”?>

Arizona jumped out to a 20-4 lead nine minutes into the game. The Jayhawks battled back and a breakaway dunk by freshman Julian Wright pulled KU to within four points with less than four minutes remaining in the first half. Despite shooting 41 percent to Arizona’s 29 percent, KU trailed 35-29 at halftime.

A jumper by freshman Mario Chalmers tied the game 41-41 with 11:32 left in the second half. However, KU could never take the lead as the Wildcats gradually pulled away and iced the game on the free throw line.

A three pointer by UA’s Chris Rogers put the Wildcats up 10 with just over five minutes remaining on the clock. Sophomore Sasha Kaun fouled out on KU’s next possession. Kaun left with a team-high 12 points and six rebounds. Rogers led all players with 14 points.

Freshman Micah Downs scored five points in his Kansas debut. The Kirkland, Wash., native also hit a three-pointer.

The Jayhawks will face either Arkansas or Connecticut tomorrow at 3 p.m. central. The game will air on ESPNU.