As Kansas gears up for the Big 12 Tournament in Kansas City, head coach Bill Self is putting health rumors to rest and focusing on the excitement of March Madness.
Self addressed recent online speculation about his health during a press conference, making it clear that he's ready for the postseason challenge.
“Don’t believe everything you see online,” Self remarked. “I’m feeling good and really looking forward to the upcoming weeks, whatever they may bring.”
The Jayhawks, entering the tournament as the No. 3 seed, finished conference play tied with Iowa State and Texas Tech at 12-6. Thanks to tiebreakers, Kansas secured the higher seed and will kick off their tournament journey Thursday night at the T-Mobile Center.
With multiple potential opponents on the horizon, Self and his coaching staff are preparing for several teams simultaneously.
“We’re treating them all as if they’re next up,” Self explained. “We’ll scout tonight’s game thoroughly, and then do the same tomorrow.”
Kansas is focusing on honing its own game, making minor adjustments based on matchups, while recognizing that teams in the conference are already well-acquainted with each other.
“At this stage, everyone knows each other well,” Self noted. “We’ll make some tweaks, but nobody’s going to reinvent the wheel.”
Self took a moment to commend sophomore center Flory Bidunga, recently named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, highlighting his improved discipline and defensive prowess.
“His biggest leap has been understanding how to use his length without taking unnecessary risks,” Self said.
While celebrating the accolades for Bidunga and guard Melvin Council Jr., Self expressed some disappointment over forward Tre White not receiving conference recognition.
“If March didn’t excite me, I’d hang it up,” Self declared. “This is the time of year we live for.”