Through the Phog
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Kansas basketball practicing for Italian holiday

By Stan Unruh

NEW ORLEANS, LA - MARCH 30: Head coach Bill Self of the Kansas Jayhawks looks on during practice prior to the 2012 Final Four of the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on March 30, 2012 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LA - MARCH 30: Head coach Bill Self of the Kansas Jayhawks looks on during practice prior to the 2012 Final Four of the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on March 30, 2012 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /
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Kansas basketball fans will get an early look at Bill Self’s 2017 team next month.  Practices are underway for the team’s trip to Italy.

Every four years, the NCAA allows college basketball teams to take a big field trip.  In addition to the educational opportunity, coach Self gets some additional time to work with his guys. I would think the summer study outside the United States is an outstanding recruiting tool.  On the other hand, there is much more than a short trip to Italy for recruits to consider.

In a media release, the University reported the places on the team’s sight-seeing agenda.

"In Rome: The Colosseum, the Vatican Museum, St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. In Milan: The Cathedral Duomo and take a boat tour of Lake Como."

Another nice part of these trips is that all the players are eligible to participate in the four exhibition games. That includes transfers guard Charlie Moore, and Memphis guard/forward brothers Dedric and K.J. Lawson. As a matter of fact, the returning Jayhawks and nine new players we expect, will see the majority of the action.

There are many unanswered questions as we look forward to this Kansas basketball team. You know we all want to see what Billy Preston will do. I am also very anxious to see Malik Newman work with Devonté Graham.  How will Udoka Azubuike perform after the wrist injury?

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Among the biggest issues for Kansas basketball fans is how to catch the games in the middle of your workday 11:30 a.m. or noon. I always listen to the radio call and watch.  Fortunately, Brian Hanni and Greg Gurley will call these games on radio. Not all affiliates along the IMG network will carry the games. A Tunein ap will help. You can watch the games from Italy  on a video stream if you want to spend a few dollars.

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