Kansas basketball: Jalen Wilson’s return boosts existing roster

After testing the waters in the 2021 NBA Draft, Kansas basketball forward Jalen Wilson announced he will withdraw from the draft and return with the Jayhawks for his sophomore season.

Though it always seemed more likely than not that he would return, Kansas fans have eagerly awaited to hear his decision.

Last season, Wilson was a mainstay in the starting five, playing an important role on the perimeter for the Jayhawks.

In the 2020-21 season, Wilson averaged 11.8 points and 7.8 rebounds per game as a redshirt freshman and was named to the Big 12 All-Freshman and All-Newcomer teams.

Showing flashes of potential, the redshirt freshman’s talent and athleticism prompted him to explore the NBA draft, but he ultimately decided he could best raise his future draft stock playing another season in college.

Kansas head coach Bill Self commented following Jalen Wilson’s announcement:

"“We are so happy about Jalen’s decision to return. He did exactly what the process allowed and received great advice on what he needs to work on moving forward. There is no doubt his experience in testing the NBA will benefit him down the line.”Bill Self on Wilson’s decision to return to Kansas. (KU Athletics)"

Wilson will likely retain his starting spot in this year’s rotation, and his return adds key forward depth to this year’s Kansas team. His confirmed return will bolster an already much-improved roster for the coming season.

Look for Jalen Wilson to be a key player for this season, as he’ll respectable experience from the 2020-21 season back to Allen Fieldhouse with a new teammates along for the ride.