Jayhawks secure MAC Freshman of the Year Leroy Blyden Jr., an instant-impact guard boasting scoring and playmaking to elevate Kansas basketball.
Kansas Adds Instant Impact Guard Leroy Blyden Jr. Out of Portal
Kansas needed a guard who could come in and produce right away, and Bill Self got exactly that with Leroy Blyden Jr..
This is a big time addition for the Jayhawks. Blyden was one of the most productive freshman guards in the country last season at Toledo, averaging 16.4 points, 4.5 assists, and shooting over 40 percent from three. He was not just putting up numbers either, he was doing it efficiently and consistently. Freshman of the Year in the MAC says a lot.
Bill Self made it clear what stands out.
“We felt Leroy was one of the very best guard prospects in the portal, period. He can score, he shoots it with range, and he’s efficient.”
That is exactly what Kansas needed. A guard who can both run the offense and go get a bucket. Blyden checks both boxes. He has real feel as a lead guard but can also play off the ball and space the floor. The ability to get downhill and make plays is something this roster was missing.
You look at the production and it jumps out. Double figures in 24 games, 13 games over 20 points, and a 36 point game. He also showed playmaking with multiple high assist games, including 13 in one outing. Add in 1.8 steals per game and you are getting a two way player.
The shooting is what really elevates his fit. Over 40 percent from three on solid volume is huge for a Kansas team that needs more spacing. Pair that with an 84 percent free throw mark and it is clear he is a reliable scorer.
There is also upside here. He is only a sophomore and already producing at a high level. In Self’s system, with better talent around him, there is room for him to take another step.
Bottom line, this is not just depth. This is a guy who is going to play real minutes and have a real role. Kansas needed a guard like this, and they got one.
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!
Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!