Kansas got tough news early in the 2026-27 season, and it hits right in the backcourt. Veteran guard Melvin Council Jr. broke his right foot during Monday’s practice and is set to have surgery in the next couple of days, leaving the Jayhawks to navigate the nonconference schedule without one of their most experienced players.
Bill Self confirmed the injury in a statement Monday and said Council fractured the fifth metatarsal in his foot. The Kansas coach also offered the clearest target yet for a return.
"Melvin broke the fifth metatarsal in his foot during Monday's practice and will have surgery in the next couple of days," Self said. "We expect a full recovery and we're hopeful he will return around the start of the conference season."
KU Sports reported that Kansas is aiming to have Council back around the opening of Big 12 play, which begins January 2 with the Jayhawks hosting West Virginia.
Council’s absence is a real blow because of what he brings to the floor. He came back to Lawrence for another season after gaining additional eligibility through a preliminary injunction against the NCAA, and he was a major piece for Kansas a year ago. Last season, he averaged 12.7 points, 5.1 assists and five rebounds per game, giving Bill Self a guard who could score, set up teammates and defend several spots.
He had already been productive in the early going this season, averaging eight points, five assists and 3.5 rebounds in about 21 minutes per game through Kansas’ first two games.
Now the Jayhawks will need others to absorb those minutes. Leroy Blyden Jr. could take on a bigger role next to freshman Taylen Kinney, and Tyran Stokes may also be asked to handle more of the ball.
That becomes even more important with No. 24 Kentucky looming in the Champions Classic, a game that now comes without one of Kansas’ most seasoned backcourt options.
For Kansas, the good news is that Self’s update pointed toward a recovery rather than a season-ending issue. The hope is still there that Council can get back in time for the start of conference play.
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Kansas Suddenly Faces A Backcourt Problem Bill Self Didnt Need
Kansas suddenly has to adjust its backcourt plans after senior guard Melvin Council Jr. broke the fifth metatarsal in his foot during practice and will need surgery. For a team still trying to settle its rotation, the timing is especially awkward, because Council was part of the leadership structure in the guard group and someone Bill Self was counting on to steady things early.
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