Kansas confronts a transformed Zuby Ejiofor, a former Jayhawk now dominating for St. John's. The emotional reunion promises a fierce frontcourt battle.
Kansas Braces for Matchup Against Former Jayhawk Zuby Ejiofor
When Kansas takes the floor Sunday against St. John’s, the challenge won’t just be about advancing to the Sweet 16. It will also mean lining up against a familiar face.
Former Jayhawk forward Zuby Ejiofor now anchors the Red Storm frontcourt, presenting both a physical test and an emotional subplot for Kansas head coach Bill Self and his players.
“We love Zuby. We didn’t want him to leave,” Self said. “We’re happy for his success — just hope it’s not against us.”
Ejiofor’s development since departing Lawrence has been hard to ignore. Once an undersized post player fighting for minutes, he has grown into one of St. John’s most reliable contributors, averaging 16.3 points and 7.3 rebounds per game while protecting the rim. Self said the transformation has been as impressive as anything.
“When we had him, he was more of an undersized post,” Self said. “Now he’s a complete four man. He can pass, he’s skilled — he’s really expanded his game.”
His growth mirrors the identity of a St. John’s team that thrives on physicality and effort, traits Kansas expects to see immediately on Sunday.
For Kansas, matching that energy starts in the frontcourt. Self emphasized the importance of winning the physical battle early, especially against a player who knows the Jayhawks’ system and tendencies.
“Hit first. Be aggressive. Get 70% of the 50/50 balls,” Self said. “Our three, four and five have to be ready.”
While the matchup adds another layer to an already high-stakes game, Self made it clear there is no added emotion on Kansas’ side, at least once the ball is tipped. That doesn’t mean the connection isn’t still there.
Self said they don't stay in touch every day, but he still reaches out to Ejiofor after big performances, a reminder that even in March, relationships built in college basketball don’t disappear. But for 40 minutes on Sunday, that connection takes a back seat.
Kansas isn’t just facing a former teammate. It’s facing a player who has turned into exactly what the Jayhawks once hoped he would become, just in a different uniform.
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