Kansas basketball: Ranking the 10 most underappreciated Jayhawks of all-time

No.1: Keith Langford (2001-2005)

Kansas basketball career stats: 136 games, 13.3 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 2.4 APG, 49.5% FG

Due to his overlooked contributions to some of the best Kansas basketball teams in the modern era, Keith Langford is undoubtedly the most underappreciated player in KU’s illustrious history.

Former teammate Aaron Miles himself said the same thing about Langford. It’s hard to describe him as anything else besides a “baller.” He gave his all to KU, whether it be on the defensive end, cheering on his team, or driving through hard contact to draw fouls. Langford was never afraid of the moment, and he’d put his body through everything if it meant coming out with a win.

Not only is he one of the more underrated Jayhawks ever, but Langford is one of the most likable players as well. There is nothing better as a fan than watching someone who gives it his all in every possession, and that is exactly how Keith played. Even as a jack of all trades, Langford made it work every time he stepped on the floor. He ranks No. 8 all-time in points scored with 1,812, yet most publications do not consider him one of the best Jayhawks of his time.

He was never the most outstanding player on a team, but he certainly was as essential to the roster as anyone else. Langford advanced to a national title game, a Final Four, and an Elite Eight, although he never was on a championship team. He recently announced his retirement from basketball after registering a fantastic career in the EuroLeague.