Through the Phog
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Kansas basketball: Bill Self has a secret weapon

By Stan Unruh

LAWRENCE, KS - FEBRUARY 26: Bill Self head coach of the Kansas Jayhawks smiles as he watches members of his senior class being introduced prior to a game Texas Longhorns at Allen Fieldhouse on February 26, 2018 in Lawrence, Kansas. (Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images)
LAWRENCE, KS - FEBRUARY 26: Bill Self head coach of the Kansas Jayhawks smiles as he watches members of his senior class being introduced prior to a game Texas Longhorns at Allen Fieldhouse on February 26, 2018 in Lawrence, Kansas. (Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images) /
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Kansas basketball fans celebrated 3 Jayhawk seniors Monday. The love expressed in the postgame celebration made it the most emotional in recent memory.

Kansas basketball fans look forward to the annual senior night. At the same time, it is difficult to see some of our favorites play their final game in the fieldhouse. One and done players are appreciated but will never know the love Kansas basketball fans give the Jayhawk seniors. Monday night’s senior celebration was among the most memorable.

Former Jayhawk standout Perry Ellis attended Monday night’s 80-70 win over Texas. We know Kansas basketball fans love Ellis. However, the love shown Monday from and for Devonte Graham and Svi Myhailiuk is difficult to comprehend. Even beyond last season with National Player of the Year Frank Mason. How do you explain it?

Hall of fame coach Bill Self brings in new players each year.  As years fly by some fans (not you) may take it all for granted. Last night’s post game celebration allowed some to stop, listen and really reflect.  I’ve watched or listened to dozens of senior night ramblings. Prior to online coverage, I’ve had family members call demanding I hold a phone to a radio so they could catch the senior night comments from favorite players.

Tears flowed all around

As a matter of fact, I don’t ever remember more emotional comments than those shared from Devonte and Svi Monday night. There were few dry eyes among those fans tuned in. Forget points, assists, rebounds or final scores. Unless you heard them, it is difficult to describe the love Devonte expressed for coach Self and Kansas basketball. Is there any doubt about why Graham and this team accomplished this season what many said was impossible?

Next: Jayhawks far and wide celebrate 14

At times this winter, a 14th-straight conference title seemed impossible. Winning it outright was unthinkable. It took a lot of hard work and Bill Self’s secret weapon. There is a lot of love in Kansas basketball. All coaches love their teams. Fans love the players. You won’t find more love and respect than the love on display Monday night at Allen Fieldhouse.

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