The Kansas basketball program has compiled an exceptional offseason portfolio, securing four prominent transfers following a disappointing end to the 2023-24 season. While Jayhawk starters Dajuan Harris and KJ Adams have confirmed their return to Lawrence for another season, fans were particularly eager to hear the decision of star center Hunter Dickinson.
After more than a month of deliberation between entering the NBA Draft or remaining in college, the Michigan transfer has reached a decision. He has opted to utilize his final year of eligibility to complete his collegiate basketball journey at KU. The Consensus Second-Team All-American aims to guide Bill Self towards his third National Championship.
Hey @H_Dickinson24, have you made a decision yet? Everybody wants to know what you’re thinking
— Bill Self (@CoachBillSelf) April 26, 2024
Hunter Dickinson’s final season as a Lawrence resident and super senior
Coach Self and Dickinson coordinated his comeback announcement via Twitter. Self initiated the conversation by inquiring about Dickinson’s decision, to which Dickinson affirmed his return.
Despite the widespread anticipation of his comeback, this action reinforces the Jayhawks’ standing as a possible top-ranked team in the preseason. Following the announcement, Self issued a formal statement addressing the development.
“This is great news. We’ve had a lot of good things happen since the end of the season and Hunter coming back has definitely added to that. Hunter made a huge impact on our team last year. He played and fought through injuries and was still one of the most consistent players in the Big 12 and nationally. Not only is Hunter a terrific player, he’s a great leader and teammate. We expect him to contend for first-team All-American next season.”
Dickinson transferred to Kansas from Ann Arbor after spending three years there. He exceeded expectations by averaging 17.9 points and a career-high 10.9 rebounds with a 54.8% field goal shooting rate. Despite earning accolades like Big 12 Newcomer of the Year and All-American status, Kansas stumbled in the NCAA Tournament due to inconsistent shooting and the absence of Kevin McCullar, who was named to the All-Big 12 First Team.
Since Dickinson started his college career during the COVID-19 season in 2020-21, the NCAA granted him and over 1,000 others an extra year of eligibility. With projections indicating he won’t be a high NBA Draft pick and most mock drafts suggesting he’ll go undrafted, the 23-year-old’s decision was made easier.
With Dickinson on board, Kansas now completes its 2024-25 squad. He’s expected to contend for the Wooden Award, especially with more outside shooters around him and a stronger supporting cast. Additionally, 5-star recruit Flory Bidunga will provide backup support.
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