The poll results are in: Here’s a closer look at No. 10 Kansas.
10. KANSAS
2025-26 record: 24-11
Outlook for 2026-27: In mid-summer, Kansas had no returning starters and a youthful squad led by national No. 1 recruit Tyran Stokes. But coach Bill Self never stops trying to build, and the Jayhawks eventually welcomed back fifth-year forward Tre White (13.5 ppg) and seventh-year guard Melvin Council Jr. (12.7 ppg) while adding power forward Trey Kaufman-Renn (14.2 ppg, 8.3 rpg at Purdue).
What we like: The 6-foot-8 Stokes is projected as the No. 1 pick in the 2027 draft. He was so difficult to guard during Kansas’ three exhibitions that he attempted 38 free throws. McDonald’s All-American Taylen Kinney takes over at point guard, and he’ll have plenty of options as he runs the show.
Trouble ahead: Retirement rumors surrounded Self during the offseason, but he has said he is not approaching the 2026-27 campaign as his final season. Self has amassed 855 wins and two national titles in his 33-year head coaching career. Between the pressure of those expectations and the late roster additions, there could be a lot weighing on this team.
Top newcomer: Stokes averaged 31 points, 13 rebounds, six assists and four steals during his senior year of high school. It wouldn’t be surprising if he averaged 20 points, eight rebounds, four assists and two steals during his lone college season.