Melvin Council Jr. Shines with 9 3-Pointers in KU’s Overtime Victory
In a thrilling college basketball showdown, Melvin Council Jr. stood out with a remarkable performance, leading the No. 19 Kansas Jayhawks to a narrow 77-76 overtime victory against North Carolina State. Council scored a career-high 36 points, including nine 3-pointers, demonstrating a significant turnaround from his previous struggles behind the arc.
Melvin Council Jr. Dominates with 9 3-Pointers
On December 13, 2025, Council, a 6-foot-4 senior, showcased his talent, especially from three-point range. His ability to score from beyond the arc was crucial as the Jayhawks faced NC State. The performance defied recent trends; entering the game, Council had been averaging just 10.7 points per game with a mere 18.5% shooting percentage from 3-point territory.
Game Highlights
- Council scored 36 points, setting a new personal record.
- He made 9 of 15 three-point attempts during the game.
- The Jayhawks relied heavily on his scoring late in the game, particularly after a key teammate was sidelined.
Coach Bill Self praised Council’s extraordinary effort, calling it “unbelievable.” With freshman star Darryn Peterson exiting late due to hamstring issues, Council’s contributions became even more crucial as he scored the final 13 points of regulation for Kansas.
Building Confidence
Initially, NC State defenders adopted a strategy of leaving Council unguarded, testing his shooting confidence. The decision bore fruit early in the game, as Council quickly landed multiple 3-pointers. His initial success prompted NC State to adjust their defensive strategy, but Council was already in rhythm.
Key Statistics and Historical Context
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Points | 36 |
| 3-Pointers Made | 9 |
| Field Goals | 13 of 27 |
| Rebounds | 7 |
| Assists | 4 |
With his performance, Council became the fourth player in Kansas history since 1996-97 to score at least 36 points in a road game, joining a prestigious list that includes Jalen Wilson.
Conclusion
Melvin Council Jr. proved to be a game-changer for Kansas, enhancing his legacy with a stellar night that will be remembered by fans and teammates alike. As the season progresses, his ability to hit crucial shots and build confidence will be vital for the Jayhawks as they navigate the challenges ahead.
