Kansas basketball: This Final Four extra special for Bill Self

Kansas basketball is back in the Final Four for this first time in four seasons. This one is extra special for coach Bill Self.

Did you see any of the interviews Hall of Fame coach Bill Self did following Sunday’s 85-81 victory over Duke? The Kansas basketball coach always seem to say just the right things. Immediately following the incredible overtime win Self calmly wiped his brow and leaned in to listen to questions from CBS’ Tracy Wolfson.  The look of joy on his face was priceless.

As a matter of fact, most Jayhawk fans overwhelmed with the outcome, missed Self’s live interview. Fans can relive the moment thanks to a DVR or social media. Self explained to Wolfson that he told his players prior to the start of overtime to “enjoy the moment.”

While Self answered Wolfson’s questions, CBS showed the coach raising his hands in victory and shouting for joy on the sideline.  Then Self’s longtime assistant coach Kurtis Townsend gave him a big bear hug. You could see the tears in their eyes. It is a very emotional moment from two guys who are not usually emotional.

Before the game, Self described the pain of losing in the Elite Eight the past two seasons. He’s heard the criticism.  He knows fans want more than conference titles. That’s is much easier said than done. Self wanted this win badly. There is something extra special about Devonte Graham and Svi Mykhailiuk.  They have a special place in Self’s heart. He wanted the win for himself and certainly for the two senior leaders.

Self simply out-coached his opponent in the Elite Eight

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Winning 14 straight conference titles is a big deal. On the other hand, getting a team to the Final Four is so incredibly difficult. It means so much since the NCAA Tournament expanded. The competition is so good.

In addition, Self outcoached one of the game’s all-time greats Sunday.  Self’s record against other Hall of Famers Coach K, Roy Williams and Calapari is impressive. He’s won the last 9 straight. Jayhawk fans everywhere are happy for him, this team and what they did this season.