Kansas basketball: Predicting Jayhawks starting 5 and key bench players

Kansas basketball: Predicting the Jayhawks starting 5 and key bench players

DES MOINES, IOWA - MARCH 18: Dajuan Harris Jr. #3 of the Kansas Jayhawks dribbles the ball against Davonte Davis #4 of the Arkansas Razorbacks during the second half in the second round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Wells Fargo Arena on March 18, 2023 in Des Moines, Iowa. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

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Elmarko Jackson #8 in the All-American game (Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sports) /

Shooting Guard: Elmarko Jackson

One month ago, this spot would have likely gone to the recently ousted Arterio Morris. However, his dismissal from the program means someone has to step up and take his spot. That will likely go to top-20-ranked freshman and potential one-and-done Elmarko Jackson.

The 6-foot-3 combo guard is among the most dynamic athletes in the 2023 recruiting class. He dominated the AAU circuit as a rising senior and offers a diverse skill set at the 2-guard position. While his offensive game is still a work in progress, his ability to lockdown opposing defenders and to drive to the rim with lightning-quick speed makes him a potential Jayhawk star.

Bill Self has been known to pair point guards together in the starting lineup over the years, and Jackson could complement Harris perfectly. He will take some of the load off Dajuan Harris defensively, allowing him to focus on running the offense. Assuming he continues to get better with each game, Jackson should be a candidate for Big 12 Freshman of the Year.

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