Bill Self is back.
The 63-year-old Hall of Famer announced he will return to Kansas to coach his 24th season at the school. Self, who has had several health scares over the years, was noncommittal about his job status after Kansas’ NCAA Tournament second-round loss to St. John’s. But after taking more than a week to consult his family and doctors, he’s decided he still wants to coach.
The Jayhawks are coming off their worst three-year stretch in his time at the school. In his first 20 seasons, KU had been a No. 4 seed only three times, and never lower. KU had also never gone back-to-back seasons in that span without winning the Big 12. KU is on a three-year titleless streak in conference, was a No. 4 seed in 2024 and 2026 and was a 7-seed in 2025, when Self lost in the opening round for the first time since 2006.
Self has mostly tried to build through the transfer portal, but this upcoming season could be a pivot to a more traditional build. Kansas has already signed four freshmen — the nation’s fourth-best class, according to 247Sports — and is one of three finalists for top-ranked recruit Tyran Stokes. KU could also return starters Flory Bidunga and Bryson Tiller, along with rotation players Elmarko Jackson, Kohl Rosario, Jamari McDowell and Paul Mbiya, as well as seldom-used freshman Samis Calderon. If Stokes signs with Kansas, that would be 12 scholarship players who started their careers at Kansas.
He’s not going anywhere. pic.twitter.com/LDYUAaVlMr
— Kansas Men’s Basketball (@KUHoops) April 1, 2026
In this era, it’s not a given that everyone will return, but even if KU can retain a majority of its core, this roster will look different from the transfer-heavy teams of the last three years.
During the 2022-23 season, Self’s health became a concern after he had an aortic valve replaced that fall. In March 2023, he missed the Big 12 tournament and the NCAA Tournament after chest tightness and balance concerns sent him to the hospital following a practice. He had two stents placed for the treatment of blocked arteries. Last July, Self had two stents inserted following a heart scare, and he was back in the hospital in late January, missing a road game at Colorado.
Self has worked to improve his health, slimming down thanks to a healthier diet and exercise. Kansas has also changed its routine, consistently practicing in the mornings.
Self will continue his pursuit of a third national title, a feat only six coaches have achieved, and look to add to his already impressive resume at Kansas, with 634 wins, 17 regular-season conference championships and two national titles.