Fresh off a historic 53-point performance, the former Radford standout brings elite scoring and 10-three-pointer range to Lawrence, bolstering the Jayhawks' perimeter attack with explosive veteran experience.
Bill Self Explains Why Kansas Jayhawks Targeted Dennis Parker Jr.
Kansas head coach Bill Self believes the Jayhawks added one of the nation’s most explosive scorers with the commitment of Dennis Parker Jr.
After officially signing the former Radford standout, Self explained exactly why Kansas prioritized Parker late in the offseason.
“At Radford, Dennis proved that he was one of the better scorers in the country,” Self said. “He’s a more than capable shooter, with range. He’s got great size and anybody that can get 53 in a Division I game certainly has potential to get hot and carry a team in stretches.”
The 6-foot-6 wing arrives in Lawrence following a breakout season in which he averaged 18.3 points and 5.9 rebounds while emerging as one of the top players in the Big South.
Parker’s biggest moment came in December when he exploded for 53 points against Coppin State, the highest-scoring performance in Division I basketball during the 2025–26 season. He knocked down 10 three-pointers in that game and showcased the scoring ability Kansas believes can immediately translate to the Big 12.
Before his breakout at Radford, Parker spent two seasons at NC State Wolfpack men's basketball, where he played a smaller role before transferring in search of a larger offensive opportunity.
Kansas ultimately chose Parker over several other transfer portal options, and his combination of size, shooting, and downhill scoring gives the Jayhawks another versatile offensive weapon heading into next season.
Whether Parker starts or comes off the bench, he is expected to play significant minutes as KU continues finalizing a roster built around elite freshman talent and experienced transfers.
JOIN THE COMMUNITY
Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!
It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members. Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!
Seattle Seahawks Land Steal with Emmanuel Henderson Jr.
The Seattle Seahawks might have just found a gem. Emmanuel Henderson Jr. is officially off the board, and for where he was taken, this feels like a steal. He was one of the few bright spots for Kansas last season, finishing with 766 receiving yards and five touchdowns while also making an impact in the return game. The upside is easy to see.
Henderson’s speed jumps out immediately. He can stretch the field, create big plays, and flip momentum as a returner. That 214 yard, two touchdown game against Cincinnati showed exactly what he can be when everything clicks.
He is not a finished product, but late in the draft, that is what you are betting on. Traits and ceiling.
Seattle gets a player who can contribute on special teams right away and develop into more in the offense. If he puts it together, this could end up being one of the better value picks from this class. Low risk, high upside. That is a win.