Kansas basketball: Analyzing each contender for the final spot in Jayhawks starting lineup

Kansas Basketball Starting Lineup Contender No. 3: Johnny Furphy

The Australian phenom who shined during the NBA Academy Games was a pleasant surprise to KU’s recruiting class this August. He is reportedly much more college-ready than anticipated and should be an instant contributor.

Listed at 6-foot-9, 202 pounds, Furphy’s slim build might remind Kansas basketball fans of Gradey Dick. However, his play style is far different than the Toronto Raptors’ lottery pick. His jump shot is still a work in progress, but he is extremely athletic and has a versatile game on both ends of the floor.

While he is thought of as a guard, Furphy is really more of a wing player like Timberlake. He is five inches taller than him, which helps his case to start. Regardless of which unit he plays with, though, he will receive plenty of minutes each game.

Right now, Furphy is dealing with shin splints and has not practiced with the team much lately. His status for Sunday’s scrimmage and the first game of the year could be in jeopardy if we don’t hear anything soon. Still, assuming Furphy gets better as the year progresses, Coach Self might value his height and length more than the other candidates.