Kansas basketball's season is over after a thrilling battle with St. John's, ending with a Dylan Darling go-ahead basket that sealed their victory.
And guess who was the first to hop on the Jayhawks' losing train? Yep, Kansas State fans. The rivalry never ends, as Wildcats fanatics immediately shredded their in-state nemesis on social media.
Even for Kansas State's underwhelming past few seasons, the Jayhawks have their fair share as well. Despite Kansas's annual high expectations, the program has failed to make the Sweet 16 since 2022.
As for the game itself, it was an ugly showing for Kansas despite the comeback. Poor early shooting, sloppy turnovers, and an inability to inbound the ball ultimately led to the loss to St. John's. Jayhawks guard Tre White had just four points with three turnovers and three personal fouls. Darryn Peterson and Melvin Council Jr. combined for 36 points, but freshman forward Bryson Tiller scored zero.
Kansas coach Bill Self revealed the immediate emotions of such a heartbreaking last-second loss.
"The tournament is one of the things that makes it so great; it can be great, but it can also be cruel," Self said in his postgame interview. "We obviously put ourselves in a position to play from behind the whole game, then really competed and played great down the stretch, but just didn’t finish what we started. Certainly disappointed. Sad for our guys because they tried so hard. Just a tough afternoon."
And of course, the age-old question looms as Self turns 64 this year. With some off-court health issues, there is a possibility that he will retire.
"I'll get back, get with family, and see what's going on," Self said. "I love what I do. I need to be able to do it where I'm feeling good and healthy to do it fairly well. I'll get back home, and it'll all be discussed. I've had some issues off the court health-wise, but I love what I do. I wanna feel good while I'm doing it, though."
If this is the end, the Kansas legend has a decorated resume to look back on. And that's something that Wildcats fans can't deny.
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