Mission unaccomplished.

The 6-foot-10 former Kansas University All-American, who led the Jayhawks to a national title in 1988 and played the next 14 seasons in the NBA, was quickly spotted by ISU officials at the Jan. 6 game between KU and ISU.

Manning’s seat location was relayed to the public-address announcer, who surprised the ex-Jayhawk at halftime by introducing him to the Cyclone fans. Despite the fact the hated Jayhawks led, 39-21, the Hilton faithful politely clapped.

“Wow,” Manning said. “I was sitting there watching the game. I’ve got my hat pulled over my head like I always do. … I was shocked by hearing that. It was a fairly nice reception, probably the nicest reception I’ve received there.”

The same fans who booed Manning during his four losses at Hilton from 1984-88 had to be wondering what the two-time NBA all-star was doing back in Ames, Iowa, during the NBA season.

“I’m enjoying life, sitting back and doing things this year I haven’t been able to do the last 14 years: have fun,” the 36-year-old Manning said.

He played for the Dallas Mavericks last year but has been unable to land a guaranteed contract this season. Manning has attended almost all of KU’s games while practicing with the Jayhawks on a regular basis.

“I am both a player and a fan,” Manning said. “I’ll always play the game and always support the Jayhawks.”

Manning — he is sometimes joined by former KU players Nick Bradford, Steve Woodberry and Jeff Boschee at practice — says his presence can be a win-win situation.

“I feel I am helping them, but they are also helping me,” Manning said. “It’s a situation I get a chance to stay in shape, continue to work on my skills and give them another body to play against. I have played at this level before and can help them out in certain situations.”

Senior forward Nick Collison said Manning’s presence was helpful.

“It makes practice very competitive and a lot of fun. He is very experienced, and playing against somebody that talented and competitive can only make you better,” Collison said.

Kansas coach Roy Williams agreed.

“He’s been very, very helpful to us. He’s always been very helpful to us,” Williams said. “You are talking about one of the greatest players ever and one of the greatest guys I’ve been around, too.”

Manning has enjoyed the practices of the successor to the man he played for — Larry Brown.

“He is a great coach,” Manning said of Williams, who earned his 400th coaching victory Wednesday versus Wyoming. “I always thought he was a great coach. Now I’m able to see it firsthand — the ins and outs of what he stresses and teaches. I’m very impressed.”

KU’s players impress Manning, too.

“They are all good,” he said. “I think Nick and Wayne (Simien) stand out. They are two very talented, powerful players. They have been in the system a while and have a good understanding of what is going on. Everybody is talented. If you compete, run the system and are patient, good things happen.”

Manning, who tries to “stay within the system” at practice, said it was nice to play in the same building that houses his retired jersey.

“It’s nice to always come in this building,” he said of Allen Fieldhouse. “I always get a warm feeling. Having played here four years, it’s a great time for me coming back. Every former player has a warm feeling coming back. It’s a great place to play.”

Manning is still hoping to play in the NBA, even this season.

“I’m not in limbo, just enjoying life,” he said. “Whatever happens, happens. As of now, if somebody offers me the right deal that I like, I can go play. If not, I’ll continue to stay here.”

As far as a possible career in coaching, “I am coaching three teams now. Two of my sons’ and one of my daughter’s. That’s plenty,” he said.