The Kansas Jayhawks are entering the final stretch of the 2025 college basketball season with one goal—making another deep tournament run. Powered by a mix of elite freshmen, impactful transfers, and battle-tested veterans, this roster is built for March.
Here’s a look at the key players poised to define Kansas’s postseason success.
Departing Senior Superstars: Dickinson, Adams, and Harris
Three senior leaders—Hunter Dickinson, KJ Adams Jr., and Dajuan Harris Jr.—are suiting up for their final games in Lawrence, leaving massive shoes to fill.
- Hunter Dickinson dominates the paint with elite post scoring and relentless rebounding.
- KJ Adams Jr. showcases defensive versatility while finishing efficiently around the rim.
- Dajuan Harris Jr. runs the offense with veteran poise, court vision, and shutdown perimeter defense.
Their production and leadership have anchored Kansas’s championship dreams. As they graduate, the Jayhawks create space for the next generation of stars ready to step up.
Impact Transfers Changing the Game: AJ Storr and Rylan Griffen
Kansas reloaded through the transfer portal, adding two dynamic wings who’ve quickly become difference-makers.
- AJ Storr delivers isolation scoring, creating shots off the dribble even in late-clock situations. Though his playmaking has room to grow, his offensive spark is undeniable.
Rylan Griffen adds three-level scoring and defensive versatility, making him a reliable option on both ends.
Both shoot over 40% from three, stretching defenses and opening lanes for Kansas’s big men. Their experience provides much-needed stability heading into postseason play.
Rising Stars: Bidunga and the Underclassmen Core
While veterans dominate the headlines, Kansas’s young talent is making waves—and fast.
- Freshman center Flory Bidunga is emerging as a shot-blocking force, averaging 5.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and altering shots in the paint.
Samis Calderon brings tenacious rebounding and growing offensive confidence.
Jamari Passmore adds untapped scoring potential off the bench.
This underclassmen group will gain valuable experience as Kansas eyes the upcoming Players Era Championship in Las Vegas.
Fans and bettors are closely watching the Kansas Jayhawks this season, as the roster’s development could shift tournament odds heading into March.
Elmarko Jackson’s Return From Injury
One of the biggest roster stories? Elmarko Jackson’s comeback from a torn patellar tendon suffered during an offseason workout.
After a year of rehabbing, Jackson is back in non-contact drills and inching closer to game shape. His return provides:
- Backcourt depth
- Defensive prowess—his Bayesian rating of 1.52 outpaces even some starters
- A steady hand behind Kansas’s offensive leaders
His presence could be a postseason X-factor, especially against high-powered offenses.
Future Foundation: Peterson and the 2025 Recruiting Class
The 2025 recruiting class signals that Kansas isn’t rebuilding—they’re reloading.
- Five-star guard Darryn Peterson, ranked the nation’s No. 3 prospect and reigning Naismith Player of the Year, is already flashing star potential. His performance in the Grind Session tournaments is raising eyebrows.
- Samis Calderon bolsters the frontcourt with rebounding grit.
- Jaden Nickens adds much-needed perimeter shooting.
Bill Self once again blends elite recruits with long-term development pieces, ensuring Kansas remains a powerhouse.
The Jayhawks’ Championship Blueprint
As the 2025 season winds down, Kansas stands ready. Veterans Dickinson, Adams, and Harris pass the torch to Storr, Griffen, and Peterson—a new core eager to etch their names into Jayhawks history.
This isn’t a rebuild. It’s a seamless reload, proving why Kansas remains a model of continuity and excellence in college basketball. The Jayhawks’ roster might be evolving, but their championship ambitions? Those remain as strong as ever.
