Kansas men’s basketball returns just three players from its 2024-25 roster. In today’s college basketball landscape, the transfer portal and NIL deals are turning rosters over quicker than ever. 

For Kansas head coach Bill Self, it brings uncertainty but excitement for the upcoming season and the Jayhawk squad. 

“I don’t really know what to expect yet,” Self said on Wednesday at Big 12 Media Day. “We return one guy that played in a game last year… I think the unknown is different, but there's excitement in the unknown.” 

The three players that returned to Lawrence this season are sophomore center Flory Bidunga and guards Elmarko Jackson and Jamari McDowell. Neither Jackson (injury) nor McDowell (redshirt) played in a game last season. Bidunga is the only returner who scored a basket last season. There are lots of new faces on this Kansas team. 

“This year's team is unproven,” Self said. “I mean, we haven't done anything yet, but I will say, more athleticism, got some guys that can make plays… and I obviously think we're more equipped for what should be an unbelievable league this year.” 

Self mentioned the athleticism this year’s team brings. Two guys that could bring that energy each night are freshman guards Darryn Peterson and Kohl Rosario. Peterson, the five-star projected top-three NBA Draft pick, and Rosario, the Overtime Elite prospect who has earned himself a starting spot in Lawrence. Both these guards bring the athleticism Self mentioned at Big 12 Media Day. 

“Yeah, he's [Rosario] a phenomenal shooter, and he's a player that will help us get extra possessions,” Peterson said about Rosario. “He crashes the glass super hard and's like a hard-nosed player that I love to play with. Definitely a player you would love to have in a team, it's his mindset, he's a winner and a competitor.” 

Another new face who has earned a starting spot is Illinois transfer Tre White. The six-foot-seven guard talked about his decision to come to Kansas and what coach Self pitched to him. 

“Pretty seamless, to be honest, you know, same goal in mind,” White said. Nothing but winning, you know, getting pushed to the max every day. So when I came to campus, you know, getting thrown into the fire immediately.”

This new Kansas squad will take the court on Friday for an exhibition game at Louisville and the KFC Yum! Center. Tipoff is set for 6:30 CT and will be broadcast on the ACC Network.