Hey, basketball fans and KU enthusiasts, imagine this: A legendary coach, fresh off a health scare that could have ended his career, steps into the new season feeling more alive than ever. But can his renewed energy translate to a championship-caliber team for the Jayhawks? That's the big question buzzing around Allen Fieldhouse as we gear up for 2025-26. Bill Self isn't just talking the talk—he's living it, and it's got everyone wondering if this could be the turnaround we've all been hoping for.
Let's rewind a bit. Bill Self, at 62 and in his 23rd year helming KU basketball, has undergone some significant changes since his heart catheterization in late July. For those new to this, a heart catheterization is a medical procedure where doctors insert a thin tube into an artery to check for blockages or place stents to keep blood flowing freely—think of it as unclogging a crucial pipeline in your body's engine. Self got two stents to treat blocked arteries, and it's clearly lit a fire under him. He's shed quite a few pounds, overhauled his diet, and even shifted his daily routine to morning practices instead of those exhausting afternoon sessions. The result? Better sleep, more vitality, and a guy who's grinning ear to ear.
During a recent media day chat ahead of the 41st Late Night in the Phog event at Allen Fieldhouse, Self opened up about it all. 'I feel fine. I feel good,' he said confidently. This wake-up call was a big one, he admitted, noting it hit harder than his previous heart procedure back in 2022-23 that sidelined him from postseason coaching. But here's where it gets interesting—Self, who wasn't exactly known for his healthy habits before, has sworn off fried foods, fast food, red meat, and even yellow cheese for nearly three months. 'God, what a way to live,' he joked with a smile, 'but I actually feel a lot better.' It's a classic case of lifestyle tweaks leading to real improvements, and for beginners in health discussions, it's a reminder that small changes can yield big results, like better energy levels and sharper focus.
And this is the part most people miss: Despite the health overhaul, Self insists his coaching style on the court remains unchanged. He hasn't softened his approach or dialed back the intensity. Instead, he's channeling that newfound energy into his work. 'I think I have more energy this year coaching so far than last year for sure,' he shared. 'Sometimes you don't realize how rundown you were until you feel that spark again—it's like I was just going through the motions before.' Now, he's noticeably more engaged, a difference that's palpable to those around him.
Shifting gears to the team, Self is upbeat about the 2025-26 squad, which sits at a modest No. 19 in the preseason AP poll—their lowest ranking since the 2008-09 season when they started at No. 24. That's a far cry from the back-to-back No. 1 preseason spots in prior years, and it begs the question: Is this a sign of regression, or just a humbling reality check in a competitive landscape? Self doesn't seem fazed. 'This team is equipped to be better than last year's, for sure,' he said, pointing to their improved athleticism and depth. Last year's Jayhawks went 21-13 and bowed out in the NCAA Tournament's first round against Arkansas, but this group, led by freshman point guard Darryn Peterson and sophomore big Flory Bidunga, has that extra pop.
Take Peterson, for example—a McDonald's All-American who's already turning heads. Self calls him a game-changer, someone who can score even on bad offensive nights, a talent the team lacked last season. 'We have a guy that on any given night can come away with points,' Self explained, highlighting how Peterson's presence adds sustainability. But here's where it gets controversial: With all the hype surrounding Peterson, is Self right to treat him like any other rookie, pushing him to learn the ropes? Some might argue that prodigies need kid gloves, while others say tough love builds champions. Self sees it as key to his growth: 'He's been great at accepting responsibility. He's still 18 and will have ups and downs, just like Cooper Flagg at Duke last year. But his approach is spot-on, and he has a chance for a breakout season.'
Self isn't stopping there—he's heaping praise on others too. Bidunga, the 6-10 Congolese native, has evolved beyond his perimeter game (though his shooting is improving). 'He's gotten better at ball handling and playmaking,' Self noted, crediting time alongside last year's star Hunter Dickinson for teaching him the art of the pass. 'He's become a good passer, better screener, and could be one of our most consistent players yet.' Then there's Tre White, a 6-7 senior transfer from Illinois, who excels as a stretch four, spacing the floor perfectly alongside Bidunga. 'He's outplayed everyone in the frontcourt with him,' Self said. 'His skills complement Flory's beautifully.'
All in all, Self believes this KU team has the tools to rise above their preseason ranking. 'It remains to be seen if we can get to that level,' he cautioned, 'but we're better equipped than last year.' To compete with the elite on their schedule, they'll need to perform at a top-10 or even top-5 level consistently. And with Self feeling reenergized, it's tempting to think they might just pull it off.
But what do you think, fans? Does Bill Self's health revival guarantee a stronger team this season, or is it all just hype? Is the No. 19 ranking a fair shake, or does it underestimate the Jayhawks' potential? And here's a real head-scratcher: Should coaches like Self push young stars hard, even with all the pressure, or risk burning them out too soon? Drop your thoughts in the comments below—do you agree with his methods, or do you see a counterpoint I'm missing? Let's discuss!
