How former Kansas Jayhawks are faring in the 2024 NBA Playoffs so far

Kansas basketball is arguably the most accomplished college program in NCAA history. They have produced countless numbers of NBA players over the years, sending some of the best players in league history to the pros. As of the 2023-24 season, there are 13 former Jayhawks competing at the next level.

Several KU alumni reached the postseason in hopes of winning a championship. While some have already advanced to the second round, others had their seasons ended prematurely. Let's examine how former players have fared thus far.

Four former Kansas Jayhawks remain standing in NBA Playoffs

The first former Jayhawk to advance was Denver Nuggets guard Christian Braun. He has served a pivotal role off the bench during the regular season and played some important minutes when his team defeated the Los Angeles Lakers in a 4-1 series win. Last year, the Kansas native became the fifth player in history to win an NBA and NCAA title in back-to-back seasons, and he'll look to take home his second NBA Championship ring in as many years.

Other players have not found the same success. Joel Embiid, the 2023 MVP and one of the most talented players in this generation, had his season end on Thursday with a 4-2 series loss to the New York Knicks. Despite his heroics on a bad knee, the Philadelphia 76ers failed to reach the Eastern Conference Semifinals for the second time in seven years. 

Fellow KU alum Kelly Oubre Jr., who was a massive part of Philly's rotation, was also sent home this week. Udoka Azubuike was technically a member of the Phoenix Suns roster, but he was in the G League when they were swept by the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Svi Mykhailiuk and Markieff Morris advanced to the second round this week. Mykhailiuk has served in a limited reserve role for the majority of the season, though he played 11 total minutes in the Boston Celtics' 4-1 series win over the Miami Heat in a blowout game. Meanwhile, Morris and the Dallas Mavericks eliminated the Los Angeles Clippers in six games but did not see any game action.

The only player whose first-round fate has yet to be decided is Marcus Morris. He signed a late-season contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers and became a significant part of their rotation. They lost Game 6 against the Orlando Magic yesterday and will look to close the series out at home in a do-or-die Game 7.