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Kansas Jayhawk Jaliya Starts Off the Season Strong Against Omaha
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- Kansas Jayhawk Jaliya Starts Off the Season Strong Against Omaha
(USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect)
Kansas women's basketball opened its 2026-27 season with a victory Tuesday night, defeating Omaha 66-48 at Allen Fieldhouse. After a competitive first half, the Jayhawks used a dominant third quarter and an impressive performance from sophomore forward Jaliya Davis to pull away and begin the season 1-0.
Kansas entered halftime holding a 34-28 advantage, but the opening 20 minutes were far from easy. The Jayhawks shot 48% from the field in the first half, although they struggled to find their rhythm from beyond the arc. Kansas did not make a three-pointer in the first half and finished the entire game 0-for-11 from long range.
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Senior guard S'Mya Nichols helped keep Kansas in front early, leading all scorers at halftime with 11 points on 3-of-8 shooting. The Jayhawks had a six-point lead entering the locker room, but Omaha remained within striking distance and continued to challenge Kansas.
The second half, however, belonged to the Jayhawks.
Kansas came out of the break with much more energy and turned a close game into a comfortable lead. The Jayhawks outscored Omaha 21-5 in the third quarter, creating separation with their defensive pressure and ability to finish around the basket. According to the official Kansas Athletics recap , Kansas opened the second half with a 14-0 run that completely changed the momentum.
Davis was the biggest reason for that turnaround. She finished with a game-high 20 points, shooting an outstanding 10-of-12 from the field. She also grabbed eight rebounds and recorded a career-high five blocked shots. Her efficiency around the basket gave Kansas a consistent scoring option, while her defensive presence made it difficult for Omaha to finish inside.
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Davis' five blocks were especially impressive for a season opener, showing how much of an impact she can make on both ends of the floor. Her performance helped Kansas control the paint and establish itself defensively throughout the second half.
Nichols finished with 17 points on 4-of-13 shooting, adding three assists and two steals. Although her shooting percentage was not where she wanted it to be, Nichols continued to provide an important scoring presence and helped Kansas maintain control.
The Jayhawks finished the night shooting 43% from the field, while Omaha managed just 29%. Kansas also held the Mavericks to only five points in the third quarter, creating the cushion it needed to close out the game.
KU Sports' game coverage highlighted the contributions from Davis and Nichols, who combined for 37 points. Kansas also received 13 points from Regan Williams.
The Jayhawks will look to build on their season-opening performance when they return to Allen Fieldhouse to face Drake on Friday. JayhawksRoundtable .
