Kansas Jayhawks: Projecting The Starting Big Men
By Joel Wagler
Kansas Jayhawks head coach Bill Self reacts to a call – Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
There is little doubt that the Kansas Jayhawks will have as much front line depth as any team in the nation. Bill Self certainly loves to be loaded with big men.
The Jayhawks big men won’t have a ton of experience but Ellis started last year, and Jamari Traylor and Hunter Michelson both have some nice minutes under their belt. It remains to be seen if they have what it takes to start for a team like Kansas.
It is always exciting to see someone with the upside of Cliff Alexander on the roster as well.
Regardless of who starts next to Ellis, this group should show improvement. Self and his staff are well known for developing big men. Players like Cole Aldrich, Marcus Morris, Markieff Morris, Jeff Withey, Thomas Robinson, Joel Embiid, Darnell Jackson, and Sasha Kaun all made great strides under Self’s tutelage.
There is little reason not to expect the same from this group of inside players. Maybe Jamari Traylor or Cliff Alexander develop into Thomas Robinson-type studs. Or maybe Hunter Mickelson turns into the next Jeff Withey. Who knows?
The Kansas Jayhawks should be well prepared for the upcoming season along the front line. It will be interesting to see who earns the nod to start along side Ellis.