Zeke Mayo played just one season with Kansas, but he is already a Jayhawk through and through. The transfer guard joined Kansas after spending the first three years of his collegiate career with the South Dakota State Jackrabbits. Now, Mayo wants to extend his time in Lawrence for as long as possible.
Mayo, who already played four seasons of collegiate basketball, is technically out of eligibility. However, courts are currently debating a decision to grant players a fifth year of eligibility, a proposition brought forth by players and the NCAA.
Why Zeke Mayo "leaving" could be the best thing to happen to Kansas
However, as Mayo awaits the decision by the courts, the Jayhawks' roster is rapidly filling up, leaving him possibly without a spot on the team. So, by entering the transfer portal, Mayo leaves his possibilities open.
Also notably, Mayo entered the portal with a "no contact" tag, meaning that other programs cannot reach out to him even if the courts decide to grant him, and other players, a fifth year. Not to mention, he has expressed adamant interest in returning to Kansas should he be able to.
A very good source tells me Zeke has entered the portal with a no contact tag. This is in case the courts rule in favor of players receiving additional eligibility. He has none now. I've been told he would like to return to KU if such a court ruling occurs thus a no contact tag.
— Gary Bedore (@GaryBedore) April 22, 2025
Zeke Mayo 2024-25 season stats
- 14.6 points per game
- 4.8 rebounds per game
- 2.9 assists per game
- 0.7 steals per game
Mayo started in 32 of Kansas's 34 games last season, contributing the second-most points, second-most assists, and fourth-most rebounds per game on the team. Despite being just 6-foot-4 and 185 pounds, Mayo continuously drove to the basket well, alongside his incredible three-point shooting.
His innate ability to grab the ball off the defensive glass (4.5 defensive rebounds per game) helped to minimize opportunities for the Jayhawks' opponents throughout the year, even as Kansas struggled down the stretch.
The Jayhawks already lost star players Hunter Dickinson, Dajuan Harris Jr., KJ Adams Jr., and Shakeel Moore, who all ran out of eligibility after last season. So, Mayo's possible return should have all Kansas fans smiling.