Multiple Kansas basketball players regaining health as regular season approaches

The injury bug had caught up to Kansas basketball prior to the regular season’s commencement. Bill Self and the Jayhawks were without three key contributors in an unsightly 85-69 scrimmage loss to Arkansas over the weekend. It certainly wasn’t the version of the nation’s No. 1 team that most fans expected to see.

But fear not, as KU will return some reinforcements heading into tonight’s exhibition against Washburn. Coach Self said during a Monday press conference that he believes newcomers Rylan Griffen and Shakeel Moore will make their debuts in the crimson and blue. The Jayhawks are getting healthier with the regular season looming:

Rylan Griffen, Shakeel Moore to make Kansas debuts tonight

"We haven't had Hunter out there, what he missed like nine days, and then he practiced yesterday, but he's still probably not going to play. ... I see [Griffen and Moore] both playing tomorrow night now, maybe limited, but I see 'em both being out there tomorrow."

- Bill Self

The 2024-25 Kansas basketball roster has been dubbed one of the deepest and most talented rosters during the Self era. We’ll finally be able to see it close to full health today. 

With the addition of two talented guards, KU’s play should be greatly improved. Griffen is recovering from a hip flexor strain that kept him out of the Arkansas contest. Moore had not practiced for over a month after breaking his foot during a pick-up game in September. Both are expected to be fine but might have minute restrictions today.

Griffen, a 6-foot-5 wing, transferred from Alabama after helping the Crimson Tide reach a Final Four in 2024. He averaged 11.2 points and 3.4 rebounds per game but specialized beyond the arc with a 39.2% 3-point percentage.

Meanwhile, Moore is a defensive-oriented combo guard who has spent time at NC State and Mississippi State. The graduate transfer averaged 7.9 points and 1.8 assists in 33 games (22 starts) for the Bulldogs last year. When he takes the court, Moore should ease the load off Dajuan Harris on the defensive side of the ball.

Unfortunately, superstar center and Big 12 Preseason POY Hunter Dickinson is still dealing with a foot sprain that is hindering his mobility. Coach Self described it as an injury that could give the 7-footer unnecessary setbacks if he tries to play on it. His absence sounds precautionary and likely isn’t something for the Jayhawk faithful to worry about.

Hopefully, no injuries will persist through the regular season opener on Nov. 4 against Howard in Allen Fieldhouse. Kansas fans can tune into the Washburn scrimmage at 7 p.m. CT on ESPN+. Click here for more information on how to watch.