Kansas Jayhawks Update: Leipold Confident in Roster Stability, Self Looks Ahead After ISU Loss
As the Kansas Jayhawks shift into offseason mode, both football and basketball programs are already laying the groundwork for what’s next. Head football coach Lance Leipold is feeling optimistic, and for good reason.
In an era where the transfer portal can turn a roster upside down overnight, Leipold says he’s pleased with how the team has held together. That kind of continuity isn’t just rare - it’s a competitive advantage.
Roster retention might not make headlines the way splashy transfers or five-star recruits do, but for Leipold, it’s the foundation of building something sustainable. With most of the core group sticking around, Kansas can focus on refining its identity rather than rebuilding it. That’s a big deal for a program trying to climb in a deep Big 12.
Meanwhile, over on the hardwood, Bill Self is taking a hard look at what needs to change for Kansas basketball as the regular season winds down. After a tough loss to Iowa State, Self didn’t sugarcoat it - there are things that need fixing, and fast. He broke down the Cyclones game with his usual candor, pointing to areas where the Jayhawks simply didn’t execute.
The loss wasn’t just a blip - it exposed some recurring issues. Whether it’s defensive lapses, inconsistent shooting, or a lack of composure in hostile environments, Self knows that these are the things that can derail a postseason run if left unchecked.
But there’s no time to dwell. The Jayhawks are already preparing for their next test: Oklahoma State.
Self offered a quick preview of that matchup, acknowledging the challenge ahead while emphasizing the importance of bouncing back. With the Big 12 as competitive as ever, every game matters - especially when March is right around the corner.
As the Jayhawks navigate the final stretch of the season and gear up for the offseason, both programs seem to have a clear sense of direction. Leipold is banking on cohesion to keep momentum rolling in football, while Self is looking for answers - and urgency - on the basketball court.
Stay tuned. Kansas sports are entering a critical stretch, and how they respond now could shape the narrative for months to come.