Bill Self returning to Kansas for 2026-27 season

Kansas head coach Bill Self is returning for the 2026-27 season, he told On3‘s Pete Nakos and Brett McMurphy. Rumors around Self’s future had circulated after the Jayhawks suffered a season-ending loss to St. John’s in the NCAA Tournament’s Round of 32.

“With renewed clarity and the ongoing support from our administration, I remain focused and committed to Kansas Basketball competing for a National Championship. I look forward to seeing and hearing the best fans in college basketball next season at Allen,” Self told Nakos and McMurphy.

Self has battled health issues in recent years. On March 8, 2023, Self underwent a standard heart catheterization. In July of last year, Self was hospitalized after experiencing concerning symptoms and underwent surgery to have two stents inserted.

In January this year, Self was taken to the hospital after experiencing concerning symptoms. The visit caused Self to miss Kansas’ game against Colorado. Due to health concerns, Self was unable to provide an answer when asked about his future after Kansas’ loss in the NCAA Tournament.

“I haven’t really gone through much on the court. I’ve gone through some stuff off the court. So I’ll get back and get with family and visit and see what’s going on,” Self said. “I love what I do. I need to be able to do it where I’m feeling good and healthy to do it fairly well. I’ll get back home and it will all be discussed.”

Self has been Kansas’ head coach since 2003. During his tenure, Self has led the program to two national championships, 17 regular-season Big 12 titles and nine conference tournament chips.

He is a six-time Big 12 Coach of the Year, two-time AP Coach of the Year and a College Basketball Hall of Fame member. While Self is one of the most-accomplished coaches in college basketball, Kansas hasn’t advanced past the second round of the NCAA Tournament since 2022, when it won the national championship.

The Jayhawks posted a 24-11 overall record and a 12-6 mark in conference play this season. Freshman star Darryn Peterson headlined Kansas’ roster and is expected to be a top-five pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. However, Peterson missed 11 games due to cramps and other injuries.

As usual, Kansas is expected to be one of the top teams in the country again next season. The Jayhawks have an impressive incoming recruiting class, including standouts such as four-star prospect Tay Kinney.

Additionally, the Jayhawks will undoubtedly be active in the transfer portal. With Bill Self returning for his 24th season, Kansas will be hungry to return to prominent heights.