Kansas basketball forward KJ Adams went down with an apparent injury with 3:10 remaining in the Jayhawks' season-ending loss to Arkansas in the NCAA Tournament. While the team suffered another early exit in March, Adams' absence will be much longer.
The KU Athletics social media page announced that Adams had torn his Achilles that game. Head coach Bill Self released a statement that explained the 2023 Big 12 Most Improved Player underwent successful surgery and would eventually begin rehab.
"KJ had successful surgery this morning to repair his torn Achilles. He is in good spirits," Self commented. Although this is a big setback, he'll attack his rehab with his patented toughness and be back on the court as strong as ever."
An update from Coach Self on KJ Adams: pic.twitter.com/BrAtbkpoGc
— Kansas Men’s Basketball (@KUHoops) March 26, 2025
KJ Adams undergoes successful surgery for torn Achilles
It was the final game of his college career, but it could be over a year before Adams takes the floor again. According to a medical study from the Asia-Pacific Journal of Sports Medicine, the mean recovery team for players rehabbing back from a torn Achilles is 10 months. He may not return until the following season overseas season, depending on where he continues his basketball career.
Across four campaigns in Lawrence, Adams was an important player for the Jayhawks. He played a small role on the national championship-winning team as a freshman, defending Caleb Love on the final shot attempt in the title game. Adams then became a starter for three KU teams, averaging 10.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists during that span.
Known for his incredible athleticism and ability to jump out of the gym, his skill set could be severely impacted by the injury moving forward. However, it is terrific news that his surgery went well. Adams is one of the most battle-tested players to ever attend Kansas, and we hope he does well in his future endeavors.