Like father. Like mother. Like son.
Freshman C.J. Giles had some definite influences when deciding on a basketball school.
C.J.’s father, Chester, played for KU from 1978-80, while his mother Gayle Goodwin played in 1978-79.
“When I was growing up, my mom and dad always talked about how exciting it is and how fan-oriented this whole school is,” Giles said. “I was excited ever since I was little to come here, and I’m just real excited to be here right now.”
Giles almost didn’t get the opportunity.
The 6-foot-10 center from Seattle originally signed a letter of intent with the University of Miami, but backed out after the school fired coach Perry Clark. After re-opening his recruitment, Giles considered Kansas and Washington, at one point saying he was “99 percent sure” he would play in his home state.
His mind changed quickly as he announced his intentions to play for Kansas on May 19 in front of Washington television cameras.
Giles said the second decision was tough on both him and his family.
“It was just real hard for me after my coach got fired to pick which school I wanted to go to,” Giles said. “But I knew I wanted to come here.”
The center said since arriving on campus, his sole focus has been basketball.
“I just wanted to focus on winning a national championship,” Giles said.
Coach Bill Self said he would like to see Giles bulk up during his Jayhawk career. Currently listed at 220 pounds, Giles is recovering from a virus he had during the summer, which caused him to lose 15 pounds.
“I have gained a lot more weight,” Giles said. “I’m trying to gain a little bit more before I’m back up to where I was. I’m healthy now, and I’m ready to play.”
Self said he would still like to see progression in the future from Giles, but that the weight wouldn’t stop him from playing this season.
“I think C.J.’s too thin, but I think he can hold his own,” Self said. “He needs to get some weight on him, but he’s really looked good for the first practices.”
Giles said he is prepared to play any role needed of him at Kansas.
“If it means getting 15 rebounds and no points, I’m going to do that,” Giles said. “I’m going to do whatever I have to do.”
