As the offseason kicks into gear, the Kansas Jayhawks are bracing for potential changes to their roster. While Bill Self is set to return for his 24th season, the lineup for next year remains largely in flux.
Though no Jayhawks have officially entered the transfer portal yet, five players are likely moving on: Darryn Peterson is heading for the NBA Draft, while Tre White, Melvin Council Jr., Jayden Dawson, and Gee Ngala have exhausted their eligibility.
With seven key players still in the mix from the 2025-26 roster, let's break down the possible moves each might make this offseason.
Decisions Looming for the Frontcourt
Flory Bidunga and Bryson Tiller are at the heart of Kansas's frontcourt uncertainty. Last season, Bidunga tested the transfer portal waters, drawing interest from big names like Auburn and Duke before choosing to stay with Kansas. This offseason, his camp anticipates more significant offers, suggesting he might explore his options unless Kansas can make a compelling case for him to remain.
Meanwhile, Bryson Tiller, who saw his freshman season cut short, could be on the move too-especially if Kansas focuses on retaining Bidunga. With four-star freshman Davion Adkins joining the team, competition for frontcourt minutes will be fierce.
Adding to the mix, Kansas is aggressively pursuing top recruit Tyran Stokes, a move that could further limit opportunities. It seems likely that if one of these big men stays, the other might seek opportunities elsewhere.
Backcourt Conundrum
Elmarko Jackson and Kohl Rosario, once considered one-and-done prospects, now face tough choices. With incoming talent like five-star Taylen Kinney and four-stars Luke Barnett and Trent Perry, backcourt minutes will be at a premium.
Kansas would love to have Jackson or Rosario back, but matching the lucrative offers they could fetch in the transfer portal might be a stretch. Both are standout defenders with top-tier athleticism, and while the team hopes to retain at least one, keeping both seems improbable.
Uncertain Futures
Jamari McDowell, after three seasons, is weighing his options. Known for his sharpshooting, McDowell could seek a bigger role elsewhere, and with two years of eligibility left, a move wouldn't be surprising.
Paul Mbiya, who had limited playtime until the NCAA Tournament, showed promise when it counted, logging significant minutes. The freshman from the Congo has the potential to become a dominant force with the right development, akin to past Jayhawk greats. His decision will hinge on the roles and offers he receives.
Samis Calderon, another raw talent with immense potential, saw limited action last season. With a 7-foot-2 wingspan and NBA-level athleticism, Calderon could thrive under the right guidance. If he enters the portal, expect many programs to be interested, depending on what Kansas offers to keep him.
As the Final Four approaches and the college basketball season winds down, expect the transfer portal to heat up. Decisions from these players, influenced by Bill Self’s recent announcement, could come soon. Stay tuned as the Jayhawks’ offseason unfolds.