Danny back in KU blue

By Chuck Woodling Aug 22, 2003

Special to the Journal-World

Kansas University basketball legend Danny Manning is seen during his freshman season at KU in 1985. Manning, who led the Jayhawks to the 1988 NCAA national championship, is expected to join KU coach Bill Self's staff in some capacity today.

Danny Manning was decked out in suit and tie Thursday afternoon to have his picture taken for Kansas University’s men’s basketball media guide.

Manning, a former Kansas basketball All-American, who officially could join the KU men’s basketball department today, when, as coach Bill Self put it, “some I’s are dotted and some T’s are crossed,” is excited about contributing to his alma mater’s program.

“I love this place. It’s where I want to be,” Manning said. “I look forward to working with coach Self and his staff. I’m excited. I really hope it works out. Hopefully I can do a good job working with Bill and his staff and learning from them.”

Self said the 37-year-old Manning “won’t be a coach. We’re at the maximum (number of positions) there. But he’ll come in some capacity.”

Details need to be worked out, such as Manning’s exact job description, whether he’s an administrative assistant or lands a title. Other issues also may be involved, like pay and benefits.

“He wants to be involved. We want him involved. Final details have not been decided,” Self said. “He will not be a coach but there are numerous other things he can do in a program. We’re evaluating all those things.”

“There’s nothing to say (officially),” Manning said. “I hope it works out.”

Manning has played 15 seasons in the NBA. During the last five years, he has played for five different teams and signed five one-year contracts.

If an NBA team should approach Manning and ask him to play next season, Self said he wouldn’t stand in the 6-foot-10 veteran’s way.

“I’ll let him do whatever he wants, absolutely,” Self said.

Manning joined the Detroit Pistons at midseason last year. He played in just 13 games, averaging 2.6 points and 1.4 boards while playing an average of 6.8 minutes.

Players older than Manning are still drawing the NBA veteran minimum paycheck of $1 million a year. Manning has told the Journal-World he would only return to the NBA as a player, not a coach. He received coaching offers this past summer, but for months now has been discussing working for Self in some capacity.

Not that Manning needs the money. He has earned millions during his NBA career and is currently having a home built just down the road from Self’s house in northwest Lawrence.