Kansas coach Bill Self says he is not approaching the 2026-27 season as his last, though he acknowledges he is in the later stages of his career. The Hall of Famer returns for his 24th season with a revamped roster that could contend nationally if key transfer eligibility questions are resolved.

By the Numbers
  • 2026-27 will be Self’s 24th season at Kansas.
  • Kansas has missed the NCAA Tournament’s second weekend in 3 consecutive seasons.
  • Darryn Peterson missed 12 games with cramping issues before becoming the No. 2 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
  • Kansas is No. 17 in the preseason AP poll and No. 5 in CBS Sports’ Top 25 And 1.
Yes, But

Self has committed to another season, not a long-term timeline: he says how he feels and how the team plays will influence how long he continues. Kansas’ projected ceiling also depends on eligibility decisions for transfers Tre White, Melvin Council Jr. and Trey Kaufman-Renn.

State of Play
  • Kansas added top-ranked 2026 recruit Tyran Stokes and several experienced transfers after a disappointing NCAA Tournament exit.
  • Kaufman-Renn is seeking a sixth year of eligibility; White and Council are pursuing fifth years.
  • The Jayhawks open the season against Fordham on Nov. 2, then face Kentucky in the Champions Classic.
What's Next

Eligibility rulings will help determine Kansas’ lineup and whether its preseason standing understates its potential. Early tests include exhibitions against Louisville and Duke, followed by a demanding nonconference schedule.

Bottom Line

Self is back, but Kansas’ immediate outlook hinges on turning a talented, reshaped roster into a deeper and more consistent team—and on whether its key eligibility bids are approved.