After securing a top recruit, Bill Self eyes another elite shooter, Abdi Bashir Jr., to supercharge the Jayhawks' already potent offense.
Bill Self Targeting Abdi Bashir Jr. After Tyran Stokes Commitment
Fresh off landing the nation’s No. 1 recruit, Kansas Jayhawks head coach Bill Self may not be done shaping his roster.
According to reports, Kansas is pursuing Kansas State transfer guard Abdi Bashir Jr., one of the top shooters still available in the portal. Bashir recently met with the Jayhawks’ staff, signaling mutual interest in a potential move to Lawrence.
Bashir averaged 13.2 points per game last season for Kansas State Wildcats and would provide a major perimeter scoring boost. His shooting ability fits exactly what Kansas needs alongside Stokes, who is expected to command heavy defensive attention in the paint.
Self has already added scoring with transfer guard Leroy Blyden Jr. and five-star freshman Taylen Kinney. Bringing in Bashir would further stretch defenses and open up the floor for Kansas’ new centerpiece.
No decision has been made yet, but if Kansas lands Bashir, it could be the final move that rounds out one of the most dangerous offensive lineups in the country—and add another twist to the in-state rivalry.
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Projecting Kansas Jayhawks 2026-27 Starting Lineup After Tyran Stokes Commitment
With Stokes officially in the fold, Kansas’ starting five looks just about set heading into the 2026–27 season. Here’s how things are shaping up:
PG: Leroy Blyden Jr.
The former Toledo standout is expected to run the offense from day one. Blyden brings scoring, playmaking, and shooting ability after an impressive freshman season, making him a natural fit as the lead guard.
CG: Taylen Kinney
Five-star guard Taylen Kinney slots in next to Blyden, giving KU a dynamic two-ball-handler backcourt. His connection with Stokes should help the offense click early.
SF: Tyran Stokes
No surprise here—Stokes steps in as an immediate starter. His versatility allows him to score, facilitate, and defend multiple positions, making him the centerpiece of the lineup.
PF: Keanu Dawes
The Utah transfer provides toughness and rebounding in the frontcourt. Dawes’ athleticism and ability to clean the glass give Kansas a strong interior presence alongside Stokes.
C: Christian Reeves
The 7-foot-2 big man anchors the paint. Known for his rebounding and efficiency inside, Reeves gives KU size and stability at the five, with Paul Mbiya likely rotating in depending on matchups.
Outlook
With this lineup, head coach Bill Self has a balanced group featuring elite scoring on the wing, a skilled backcourt, and a physical frontcourt. The addition of Stokes appears to be the final piece, giving Kansas one of the most complete starting fives in the country heading into next season.