Kansas basketball had its season end in disappointing fashion yesterday, losing by 21 points to Gonzaga in the Round of 32. While most fans are still feeling impacted by the loss, it's never too early to start looking toward the offseason, especially in the new era of NIL and the transfer portal.
After missing last year's tournament due to a heart ailment, KU head coach Bill Self went all out in the transfer portal. He brought in one of the best big men in the country in Hunter Dickinson while also adding Towson transfer Nick Timberlake, Santa Clara transfer Parker Braun, and Texas transfer Arterio Morris, who did not see the floor as a Jayhawk.
While finding a player of Dickinson's caliber is less likely this year, fans should still expect Self to pursue some top-notch talent in the portal. Kevin McCullar and Timberlake are out of collegiate eligibility, and the only player who has confirmed they will return to Kansas next year is facilitating point guard Dajuan Harris.
We compiled the list of transfers the Jayhawks' coaching staff has made contact with as of Mar. 24, 2024. Keep in mind the extent to which KU is interested in each of these players is not taken into account. We are simply naming everyone who has publicly confirmed that Kansas reached out to them.
G/F Michael Ajayi - Pepperdine
2023-24 Statistics: 33 G, 17.2 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 1.9 APG, 46.7% FG, 1.2 3PM, 47.0% 3PT
After spending two years at a JUCO, Ajayi's strong season at Pepperdine has earned him interest from some of the best programs in the country. The double-double machine based out of Washington shot 3-pointers at an efficient clip and set the box score on fire night in and night out, scoring 25+ points seven times.
While he is listed as a guard, Ajayi has the size of a forward and is a tremendous rebounder at his position. His skill set pairs perfectly next to Hunter Dickinson with his ability to shoot and create shots for his teammates, and he would make for a perfect Kevin McCullar replacement.