Watching the Kansas Jayhawks compete in college basketball is always a treat that is simply unmatched. Through nonconference play, Big 12 matches, the Big 12 tournament, and of course March Madness, KU hoopers pour their hearts and souls into the Crimson and Blue. The best of the best Jayhawks then venture onto the NBA where fans can see them continue their careers.
Entering this 2024-2025 NBA season, there are 13 former Jayhawks who will suit up for various NBA teams. Some were four-year players in Lawrence while others were one and done players who entered the NBA right away. One player even transferred to another school after Kansas before entering the draft two years later, but once a Jayhawk, always a Jayhawk.
Who are the 13 former KU hoopers who will be in the NBA this season? Additionally, what teams will they suit up for and what are their roles?
The best Jayhawk in the NBA is still former MVP and 7x All-Star Joel Embiid
After spending a mere 28 games (20 starts) with Kansas in 2013-2014 as a freshman, Embiid will be entering his 10th season in the NBA. Starting his career with two fully missed seasons due to a stress fracture in his foot entering the league, Embiid has dealt with a slew of bumps, bruises, and bizarre injuries throughout his career.
When he is healthy, however, he is a bona fide superstar in the NBA. Look no further than his 33.1 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 4.2 APG, and 1.7 BPG season in 2022-2023 when he won the Most Valuable Player award. Even last season, he dropped 70 points against rookie phenom Victor Wembanyama in a game.
Embiid had a fair showing at the Olympics, helping Team USA win the gold medal and will now rejoin his Philadelphia 76ers, who will be pushing for a championship. They added superstar Paul George in the offseason and Embiid is also joined by a fellow-Jayhawk, which should make for another fun watch this year.
Next up, the rundown of the other former Kansas Jayhawks NBA starters!