The Kansas basketball program does not produce as many professional players as other blue-blood schools, but the Jayhawks still have an extensive lineage of NBA talent. Since Bill Self took over at the helm in 2003, he has sent many of his recruits off to the next level.
This week, the NBA announced its list of All-Star reserves. No former KU players were named to the starting lineup, nor were any listed anywhere on the ballot. It marked the first time in several years that the University of Kansas did not boast an All-Star.
Kansas basketball fails to have an All-Star selected for first time since 2016
76ers superstar Joel Embiid normally has a spot reserved for him in the event, but his injury-riddled campaign (13 games) prevented him from participating in All-Star festivities. Among the 10 other former Jayhawks playing, none were even considered in the fan or player voting.
Embiid won the 2023 MVP and arguably had a better statistical season a year ago. However, durability issues have plagued him since he got to the league. In 13 contests, the 7-footer has posted 24.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, averaging the lowest minute average since his rookie season. Coincidentally, that year was also the last time he did not receive an All-Star nod.
From 2017-2024, the only other former Jayhawk named an All-Star was former No. 1 overall pick Andrew Wiggins in 2022. He and Embiid were both one-and-done players on the 2013-14 Kansas basketball team, and Wiggins started alongside his ex-teammate. That is the only All-Star appearance in his 11-year NBA career.
While there was no representation on the Jayhawks' end, Embiid still has several years left of his prime if he can regain his health. Hopefully, the five-time All-NBA selection can rep KU in the All-Star Game in 2026.