The Kansas men’s basketball team encountered a significant setback in their pursuit of a national championship when head coach Bill Self revealed to the media that star guard Kevin McCullar Jr. will miss the NCAA tournament due to a knee injury.
According to Self, McCullar hasn’t been able to practice due to persistent knee pain. Despite attempts at rehabilitation, his condition did not improve this week. Self mentioned that either Elmarko or Nick would fill McCullar’s position in the lineup.
As a senior, McCullar has been instrumental for the team, leading in points with an average of 18.3 per game, along with 6.0 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.5 steals.
Here's a clip of Bill Self's announcement just now that Kevin McCullar will miss the NCAA Tournament. pic.twitter.com/Q9qkfgXQCt
— Henry Greenstein (@HenryGreenstein) March 19, 2024
Self-provided an update on Hunter Dickinson, who missed a game due to a dislocated shoulder, stating that Dickinson is in good shape. However, McCullar’s knee pain proved too severe for him to continue playing.
The Jayhawks’ season had already been shaky, marked by four losses in the last five games, resulting in a 7-8 record after a strong 15-2 start. Losses included a significant defeat against Houston and the recent loss to Cincinnati, during which both McCullar and Dickinson were absent.
McCullar’s absence will likely make Kansas vulnerable to upsets, especially in the tournament’s early rounds. If Dickinson isn’t fully recovered, the team’s prospects worsen.
For many, McCullar’s injury is disheartening, especially considering his decision to return for a fifth season with hopes of securing a national championship.
McCullar expressed his commitment to the team and the fans when he announced his return in May 2023. Coach Self hailed McCullar’s decision, emphasizing its significance for Kansas basketball.
Despite high expectations, with the Jayhawks starting the season as the top-ranked team in the AP’s preseason poll, McCullar’s absence dampens their championship aspirations.
