Stories for December 2016

KU-Baylor women's basketball preview

Who: Kansas vs. Baylor When: 2 p.m. Sunday Where: Ferrell Center Series: Baylor leads, 25-8

KU transfer Evan Maxwell leaving the program

Although the news does nothing to damage KU's rotation this season, KU's crop of big men took another hit on Saturday, when 6-foot-10 center Evan Maxwell announced, via press release, that he was leaving the program. By Matt Tait

Self seeking better defensive effort from Jayhawks

Dipping one toe into Big 12 waters was all it took for Kansas coach Bill Self to discover one reality about his basketball team he hoped was not true. By Matt Tait

Tom Keegan: Two-deep bench for Kansas not too shallow

A seven-man rotation certainly isn’t ideal, but Kansas can get away with it if it can figure out how to defend aggressively without piling up fouls.

Notebook: Jackson 'lost composure' during technical foul; Jayhawks make key free throws

Fort Worth has never been confused for Honolulu, but, in the eyes of Kansas freshman Josh Jackson, they might as well be the same city.

Tom Keegan: Landen Lucas stepped up when Jayhawks needed him most

Leave it to a senior in a time of need to deliver in a time of need. One such time arrived Friday night in Schollmaier Arena for Kansas center Landen Lucas.

Opening Act: Mason, Lucas lift Jayhawks to 86-80 win in Big 12 opener

Because he plays with such tenacity and never shies away from attacking the rim, it may have been hard to spot. But Kansas senior Frank Mason III flipped a switch a few minutes into Friday’s 86-80 victory over TCU that may have saved the Jayhawks.

Veterans key Kansas road win to open Big 12 play

Winning conference games on the road can be difficult in college basketball without some veterans to lead the way. No. 3-ranked Kansas couldn’t have opened Big 12 play Friday night at TCU without seniors Frank Mason III and Landen Lucas. By Benton Smith

QB Peyton Bender's Air Raid experience makes him instant starting candidate

Beaty expects former WSU QB to push Carter Stanley

Peyton Bender hasn’t even practiced with Kansas yet, but from the moment he steps foot on campus in January, the junior quarterback will be required to take on a prominent role. That directive comes straight from the man running the program, David Beaty, who thinks Bender’s talent and time in the Air Raid offense at Washington State makes him capable of immediately challenging for KU's starting spot. By Benton Smith

Jayhawks emphasize process, not big picture, of continuing Big 12 title streak

When you’ve won 12 consecutive conference titles, you tend to have a pretty clear understanding of how to handle the spotlight that shines on your program while people wonder if this will be the year the streak ends. By Matt Tait

Misfire: Jayhawks struggle to shoot in 84-54 loss to Oklahoma

In Thursday’s Big 12 opener against Oklahoma, the Kansas women’s basketball team made five shots in the first three minutes. Then the Jayhawks missed nine straight shots and never recovered in an 84-54 loss at Allen Fieldhouse.

Gameday Breakdown: No. 3 KU basketball at TCU

A look at some of the keys for third-ranked Kansas in Friday night's Big 12 Conference opener at TCU. By Matt Tait

Tom Keegan: Time to predict Big 12 standings

The first leg of an 18-game journey aimed at winning a 13th-consecutive Big 12 title opens Friday at 8 p.m. in Fort Worth, vs. TCU, so now’s the last chance to predict the order of the Big 12 standings.

Freshman forward Mitch Lightfoot in position to be a factor

Everybody knows that the Kansas men’s basketball team has the guards necessary to win the Big 12 Conference for a record-tying 13th consecutive season. But whether or not the third-ranked Jayhawks actually get it done could come down to the play of their big men. By Matt Tait

KU-Oklahoma women at a glance

A preview of the Kansas women's basketball team's game against Oklahoma on Thursday.

With new contract, David Beaty feels increased pressure to produce for KU

As 2017 approaches and University of Kansas football coach David Beaty continues to immerse himself in the offseason drudgery that comes with trying to restore the rundown program he took over two years ago, he understands expectations have risen. By Benton Smith

New Kansas CB Hasan Defense hopes to emulate another No. 3

When the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected Aqib Talib in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft, young Hasan Defense didn’t know much about the All-American cornerback or even that Talib had played at the University of Kansas. That was prior to Defense becoming a standout corner himself, and even longer before the young Tampa fan ever thought about playing the same position for the Jayhawks. By Benton Smith

Start of Big 12 play provides Kansas a carrot to stay focused

With the Big 12 portion of the Kansas basketball schedule slated to tip off Friday night in Fort Worth, Texas, all of that offseason and preseason talk about the Jayhawks gunning to tie UCLA’s record of 13 consecutive conference titles starts to mean something. By Matt Tait

Arrest affidavit: Carlton Bragg Jr. stood with hands in pockets as girlfriend allegedly hit, pushed him

When his girlfriend accused him of cheating on her and began to get physically violent, University of Kansas basketball player Carlton Bragg Jr. stood against a wall with his head down and his hands in his pockets, according to a newly released arrest affidavit in the case.

Josh Jackson named Big 12 player of the week

Kansas freshman Josh Jackson has added a new accolade to his growing list. By Matt Tait

Tom Keegan: Bill Self by the numbers

KU coach celebrates 54th birthday today

On the 27th day of December, 1962, Billy Eugene Self was born in Okmulgee, Okla., which means he celebrates his 54th birthday today. Here’s a 1-through-54 look at how each number has a connection to Self, via this year’s teams and others he has coached.

D-lineman KeyShaun Simmons aims to bring versatility to Kansas

When junior college recruit KeyShaun Simmons made his official visit to the University of Kansas, head coach David Beaty didn’t anticipate coming away from their interaction wowed by how the defensive lineman looked with a basketball in his hands. By Benton Smith

Unheralded Kerr Johnson type of receiver Kansas wanted

Before Rob Likens abstracted himself from the Kansas football program to become the receivers coach at Arizona State, the former KU offensive coordinator might have left the Jayhawks with a significant parting gift. It was Likens, head coach David Beaty pointed out, who recruited mid-year Class of 2017 signee Kerr Johnson, a receiver from Santa Rosa Junior College, in California. By Benton Smith

Self: Freshman Josh Jackson still has another gear

There’s a chance that Kansas fans have seen all there is to see from freshman guard Josh Jackson. But KU coach Bill Self does not believe that is the case. By Matt Tait

Freshman standout Mike Lee and KU football teammates draw further acclaim

An old one-liner among those in the coaching profession goes: The best thing about freshmen is they become sophomores. While the idea of first-year players making significant jumps in their impact and productivity is a popular one with the Kansas football program, too, head coach David Beaty and his staff enjoyed watching some freshmen perform ahead of schedule in 2016. By Benton Smith

Advocates for Jessie Traylor, Jamari's incarcerated-for-life dad, appeal for clemency

Jessie Traylor knew what his outcome would be without having to hear it from a judge. In accordance with the three-strike rule for drug offenders, Traylor would be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Tom Keegan: Jackson and Self share winning ways

A look at the traits that make Bill Self and Josh Jackson winners.

Jayhawks need Bragg to focus on presence inside

The absence of freshman center Udoka Azubuike, who will miss the remainder of the 2016-17 season because of a wrist injury, creates a clear picture of what Kansas needs from its remaining big men.By Matt Tait

Notebook: Azubuike's season-ending injury 'kind of a freak deal' in practice

With his left wrist in a soft cast and a sad stare on his face, Kansas freshman Udoka Azubuike watched Thursday’s 71-53 Kansas victory over UNLV in street clothes from the end of the KU bench.

Tom Keegan: Running Rebels out of own gym no great feat these days

Anyone who thinks trading Las Vegas for Lubbock bumps the Red Sox trading Babe Ruth to the Yankees for the $100,000 Sox owner Harry Frazee used to finance a Broadway show into second place in the worst-trade-in-sports history standings obviously didn’t watch the telecast of Thursday night’s basketball game in Thomas and Mack Center.

Showtime in Vegas: Jackson gives Jayhawks 'spark' in 71-53 win

In a city known for hosting world-class shows, Kansas freshman Josh Jackson put on one of his own during a dominant first half that led the third-ranked Jayhawks to a 71-53, run-away victory over the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels on Thursday night at Thomas and Mack Center.

Josh Jackson leads KU to first road win, at UNLV

The No. 3-ranked Kansas basketball team didn’t have to endure much of a fight until late in its first true road game of the season Thursday night at UNLV’s Thomas & Mack Center. The Jayhawks took a permanent double-digit lead less than eight minutes in against the Runnin’ Rebels, who, like most KU opponents, had no answers for freshman sensation Josh Jackson in a 71-53 Kansas victory. By Benton Smith

KU cheerleaders involved in ‘Kkk go trump’ Snapchat post are off the squad

Four University of Kansas cheerleaders linked to a Snapchat post bearing the message “Kkk go trump” are no longer on the squad.

Jayhawks envision Willie McCaleb as ideal complement to Dorance Armstrong Jr.

With the Jayhawks losing their other experienced edge rushers before next season and anticipating even more focus from their foes geared toward eliminating Dorance Armstrong Jr. as a threat, David Beaty and his staff made sure to address a need in its 2017 recruiting class. The head coach thinks KU might have found a perfect pass-rushing partner for its star with the mid-year signing of Willie McCaleb. By Benton Smith

Self calls KU-UNLV clash in Vegas 'a business trip'

Visiting a place known as Sin City and by the slogan “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,” the Kansas men’s basketball team figures to get a much different experience than most while in the gambling capital of the world Thursday night to take on UNLV at 8 p.m. at Thomas and Mack Center. By Matt Tait

Jayhawks outlast Riverside in OT thriller, 90-84

With 12 lead changes in the second half against UC-Riverside on Wednesday, the Kansas women’s basketball team kept turning to sophomore McKenzie Calvert.

KU freshman Udoka Azubuike out for the season with wrist injury

The depth in an already thin Kansas basketball frontcourt became much shallower on Wednesday, when the Jayhawks learned that a wrist injury suffered by 7-foot freshman Udoka Azubuike during Tuesday’s practice will cost the 17-year-old big man the rest of the season. By Matt Tait

Gameday Breakdown: No. 3 KU basketball at UNLV

A look at some of the keys for third-ranked Kansas in its first true road game of the season, Thursday at UNLV. By Matt Tait

Bill Self nominated for Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

For the first time in his illustrious coaching career, Kansas coach Bill Self has been nominated to be inducted in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, the 'Hoop Hall' announced Wednesday, on the 125th Birthday of Basketball.

KU at UNLV not available for WOW subscribers

Kansas basketball fans in Lawrence who rely on their WOW cable subscriptions to watch the Jayhawks will have to figure out another option for Thursday night’s game at UNLV.

Kansas-UC Riverside women’s basketball preview

The Kansas women's basketball team will compete against UC Riverside today at 7 p.m.

Freshman Josh Jackson's consistency a huge factor for Kansas

One game is all the stands between Kansas freshman Josh Jackson and a return to some of his favorite haunts in the world. By Matt Tait

Wichita linebacker commits to Kansas

The two-word David Beaty hashtag that Kansas football fans long to see struck again Tuesday night. The KU head coach, as Beaty has been known to do, tweeted out the simple phrase “#NeatDeal” — signaling the Jayhawks landing a new commitment. The latest addition to the program turned out to be an in-state prospect, linebacker Cooper Root. By Benton Smith

Kansas names new QB coach after Rob Likens leaves for Arizona State

Former offensive analyst Garrett Riley promoted

Entering his third off-season as the Kansas football coach, David Beaty restructured his staff this week, with former offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Rob Likens taking a job at Arizona State. As a result, Beaty announced Tuesday the promotion of Garrett Riley to an on-field position in which he will work with KU’s quarterbacks. By Benton Smith

Linebacker Kyron Johnson getting head start with KU in spring semester

When eight new Kansas football players arrive in Lawrence ahead of the spring semester, only one could potentially stick around for four seasons. David Beaty and his defensive assistants were thrilled to land a high school senior on mid-year signing day last week, too. Kyron Johnson, a linebacker from Arlington, Texas, graduated early and will dive into offseason conditioning and spring football at KU. By Benton Smith

Big men quietly turning a corner for Kansas

Whether you’re talking about the return of sophomore Carlton Bragg Jr., the resurgence of senior Landen Lucas, the continued development of 7-foot center Udoka Azubuike or the spot minutes suddenly being given to freshman Mitch Lightfoot, the prognosis for KU’s forward position is looking up these days. By Matt Tait

Keegan: Versatile, intense Josh Jackson makes it tough for upset-minded foes

As for genuine upsets, Kansas is even more immune to those than in most seasons. Freshman Josh Jackson is as big a reason for that as anyone.

Starting center Udoka Azubuike's impact could fluctuate from game to game

By the conclusion of KU’s 89-71 victory over Davidson, starting center Udoka Azubuike had only spent seven minutes on the court, contributing five points and no rebounds. Even so, his coach didn’t fume while discussing the freshman big man's mostly forgettable evening. By Benton Smith

Notebook: Mykhailiuk earns first start of the season

With Santa sitting courtside and holiday cheer floating throughout the arena, Kansas junior Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk received an early Christmas present from Kansas coach Bill Self on Saturday night — his seventh career start and first since his freshman season.

Tom Keegan: Bragg can help the Jayhawks take the next step

Kansas basketball coach Bill Self already had used three post players, including freshman Mitch Lightfoot, when he put Carlton Bragg in the Davidson game with 11 minutes remaining in the first half Saturday in Sprint Center.

Sensational second half: Defensive intensity sends Jayhawks past Davidson, 89-71

It’s debatable whether Davidson simply ran out of gas or the Kansas defense stiffened. What is not debatable is that the Jayhawks, who trailed at halftime for just the second time this season, out-played, out-toughed and outscored the Wildcats convincingly in the second half en route to a hard-fought, 89-71 victory Saturday night at Sprint Center.

Big second-half scoring burst lifts Jayhawks past Davidson

A little first-half scare seemed to do the Kansas basketball team good Saturday night at Sprint Center.

KU women's basketball stuns Arizona, 75-51

Down by double-digits midway through the third quarter, Arizona guard Malena Washington decided to let the ball roll in front of her as she walked up the court, waiting until the last possible second to pick it up in attempt to savor the clock.

KU-Davidson series light on games, heavy on memorable moments

Kansas men’s basketball coach Bill Self is more of a look-forward type of person than he is one who spends time reflecting on the past. But, with Davidson and Kansas facing off at 6 p.m. Saturday at Sprint Center in Kansas City, Missouri, and Self’s tie to the Wildcats (5-3) representing a special time in his career, the Kansas coach was asked to take a trip down memory lane earlier this week during a break in preparation for the Jayhawks’ first game in a week. By Matt Tait

Four-star defensive back lists KU among six finalists

Stewart considering Kansas, along with nationally renowned programs

When David Beaty announced the eight mid-year signees from the Kansas football team’s 2017 recruiting class earlier this week, the head coach said his new contract extension bolstered his staff’s ability to land the types of players they want to bring to KU. Due to NCAA rules, Beaty can’t speak publicly about un-signed recruits. But if he could, the Jayhawks’ leader would point to prep defensive back Brad Stewart to reinforce that argument. By Benton Smith

Gameday Breakdown: No. 3 KU basketball vs. Davidson

A look at some of the keys for third-ranked Kansas in Saturday's Sprint Center match-up with Davidson. By Matt Tait

Jayhawks make most of 20th annual holiday shopping spree

A festive, feel-good shopping spree tradition that began 20 years ago with names like Paul Pierce and Raef LaFrentz continued Thursday night at Wal-Mart on South Iowa Street, where players, coaches, managers and family members of the current Kansas basketball team did their part to bring holiday joy to 15 area families.

Tom Keegan: Kansas most consistent college basketball program in nation

I invented a mathematical formula to see if I could confirm my suspicion that KU has had the most consistent program in the nation the past 10 completed college basketball seasons.

More accolades come in for promising KU football talents

Sophomore defensive end Dorance Armstrong Jr. and true freshman safety Mike Lee, Kansas football coach David Beaty and his staff hope, could turn out to be two Jayhawks who help lay the foundation for the program’s mammoth restoration project. Observers outside of Kansas have recognized the promise in both Armstrong and Lee, too. By Benton Smith

Bragg incident provides lasting lesson for Jayhawks

Although misdemeanor battery charges against Kansas basketball forward Carlton Bragg Jr., were dropped on Wednesday, the lesson from his recent incident lingered into Thursday. By Matt Tait

David Beaty touts eight new KU football signees

QB Bender expected to push for starting job

Eternally optimistic Kansas football head coach David Beaty had even more fuel for his fired-up disposition Wednesday, when eight members of the Jayhawks’ 2017 recruiting class signed their national letters of intent. By Benton Smith

KU forward Carlton Bragg: 'I'm glad it's over'

Now that the misdemeanor battery charge against him stemming from an incident that surfaced last Friday has been dropped, the focus can shift back to how Kansas sophomore Carlton Bragg Jr., can help the third-ranked Kansas basketball program the rest of the season. By Matt Tait

Tom Keegan: Praise for a quarterback named Peyton

Never mind that Peyton Bender, the jewel of the mid-year recruiting class, has nothing in common with Crist or Heaps. Never mind that Charlie Weis’ offense has nothing in common with the Air Raid that David Beaty prefers. Bender’s a hyped transfer quarterback, so you don’t want to run the risk of what’s left of your heart breaking yet again.

Battery charge dropped against KU basketball player Carlton Bragg Jr.; accuser charged based on video

The single, misdemeanor battery charge filed against University of Kansas basketball player Carlton Bragg Jr. was dismissed Wednesday, the Douglas County District Attorney's Office said in a release.

David Beaty: New contract facilitates KU football recruiting

Not too long ago, Kansas football head coach David Beaty or one of his assistants could walk into a recruit’s home and face some difficult questions, with opposing staffs feeding high school or junior college talents with doubts about the future of KU football. That all changed, Beaty said, when the athletic department showed its support for him and the program by extending his contract earlier this week. By Benton Smith

Jason Thoren: A football coach who shows his players more than football videos

In 13 years as Baker University head football coach Mike Grossner’s right-hand man, former Lawrence High and University of Kansas football standout Jason Thoren has watched a great deal of video with his players. But Thoren, Baker’s defensive coordinator, isn’t always showing them football videos.

KU football's 2017 schedule includes seven home dates

Year Three of the David Beaty era at the University of Kansas will come with greater expectations for the football head coach now that he has signed a contract extension and received a raise. Beaty and his Jayhawks will at least get the benefit of a home-friendly schedule. By Benton Smith

Pair of juco defenders commit to KU football

Jayhawks add CB and DE to recruiting class

David Beaty’s December hot streak continued Tuesday as the Kansas head football coach, who just signed a two-year contract extension, landed verbal commitments from a pair of defensive prospects. Northwest Mississippi Community College defensive end Willie McCaleb let the KU coaches know of his decision to sign first, and Mesa Community College cornerback Shakial Taylor did the same shortly after. By Benton Smith

Fish Smithson headed to East-West Shrine Game

Safety Fish Smithson's football career at the University of Kansas is complete, but he has one more game left in which he can represent the Jayhawks. Smithson, following his All-Big 12 senior season in the KU secondary, has accepted an invitation to play in the East-West Shrine Game. By Benton Smith

David Beaty lands contract extension, raise

Less than a month after earning his first conference victory, second-year Kansas football coach David Beaty learned the university would like to keep him around. Beaty signed a two-year contract extension, KU announced Monday, that runs through the 2021 season. The new deal also increases Beaty’s annual salary. By Benton Smith

Tom Keegan: Zenger had no choice but to extend his football coach

It’s Kansas athletic director Sheahon Zenger’s job to make decisions with his head, ones that are best for the football program, not easiest to explain to the fan base.

Incentives, details of termination or buyout in place in new Beaty contract

The University of Kansas announced Monday a contract extension with head football coach David Beaty to keep him in place through the end of the 2021 season. While the new deal doubled Beaty’s annual base salary to $1.6 million beginning in 2017, with that amount increasing by $100,000 each year he remains at KU, the contract also includes a number of incentives. By Benton Smith

Juco defensive lineman de-commits from Kansas

A trip back to the place where his college football journey began inspired one-time Kansas commitment Jamie Tago to reconsider his football future with the Jayhawks. Tago, a 6-foot-3, 245-pound defensive end who played this past season at Garden City Community College, on Monday took to Twitter to announce he no longer plans to sign with KU. By Benton Smith

Jayhawks remain 3rd in latest AP Poll

The Kansas men’s basketball team maintained its position in this week’s Associated Press poll, holding steady at No. 3 after home victories of UMKC and Nebraska last week. By Matt Tait

Woman involved in Bragg incident released from jail; case remains under review

The alleged victim in the battery case against University of Kansas basketball player Carlton Bragg Jr. was released from jail over the weekend without being charged. Her case remains under review.

KU's Frank Mason III named Big 12 Player of the Week

Kansas guard Frank Mason III earned Big 12 Player of the Week honors for the second time this season after averaging 24 points per game in a pair of home victories over UMKC and Nebraska last week. By Matt Tait

Kansas football finishes last in FBS in punt returns

Beaty: Jayhawks 'gotta be better'

While various issues contributed to the Jayhawks’ 2-10 record in head coach David Beaty’s second season, an area in need of drastic improvement showed up on one segment of special teams. KU only returned seven punts all season, netting a negative total of -10 yards. By Benton Smith

Tom Keegan: Udoka, you block more shots, your team gets better

The elements are there for Kansas to grow into a terrific defensive team, but when coach Bill Self looks at his squad on that end of the floor, he sees so much untapped potential.

Kopatich leads KU women hoops to 72-36 win

Over the last three games, Kansas women's basketball sophomore Kylee Kopatich only attempted 12 shots. Without sophomore guard McKenzie Calvert available on Sunday afternoon, Kopatich picked up the slack by taking a career high 17 shots.

KU offense humming despite poor free throw shooting

Ten games into the 2016-17 season, the Kansas men's basketball team is putting up terrific offensive numbers despite struggling mightily from the free throw line. By Matt Tait

Young KU football fan dies after cancer battle

Beaty: 'Our hearts are broken'

After a seven-month battle with undifferentiated sarcoma, a rare form of cancer, popular Kansas football fan Cole Hayden died Saturday at the age of 7.

Tom Keegan: Hot hand Lucas moving in the 'right direction'

Kansas senior center Landen Lucas entered the season so badly wanting to take a big step forward from a productive junior season. By Tom Keegan

Carlton Bragg sits against Nebraska, Self calls it 'a very humbling situation'

As expected, Kansas sophomore Carlton Bragg Jr., did not play during Saturday’s 89-72 victory over Nebraska at Allen Fieldhouse, sitting out at the end of the KU bench in street clothes following a Friday arrest and charge of misdemeanor battery in an incident involving a female KU student.

Stronger finish: Jayhawks want to play better with leads after 89-72 win

A casual look at Saturday’s box score shows an easy, 89-72 victory by No. 3 Kansas over visiting Nebraska at Allen Fieldhouse. But looking at that same game through the always-intense eyes of KU coach Bill Self shows a different picture.

Jayhawks cruise past Nebraska, five players score in double figures

The No. 3-ranked Kansas basketball team avoided any potential distractions that might have come with the Friday arrest of forward Carlton Bragg by cruising past Nebraska, 89-72, Saturday afternoon at Allen Fieldhouse.

Tom Keegan: Adding long, strong recruit or two key to KU returning to Final Four in volleyball

Final Four participant in 2015 and outright Big 12 champion in 2016, Kansas volleyball has a legitimate shot to maintain its elite level of play in 2017, senior year for All-Americans Ainise Havili and Kelsie Payne and for Madison Rigdon, first-team All-Big 12 selection.

Nebraska coach Tim Miles ready for first Fieldhouse experience

Although his focus today will be on transition defense, half-court sets and trying to lead his 5-4 Huskers to an upset of the No. 3 team in the nation, Nebraska coach Tim Miles has plans to soak up the experience for all it’s worth, regardless of what plays out on the scoreboard. By Matt Tait

Gameday Breakdown: No. 3 KU basketball vs. Nebraska

A look at some of the keys for third-ranked Kansas in Saturday's 2:15 p.m. home game against former Big 12 and Big Eight foe Nebraska. By Matt Tait

KU basketball player Carlton Bragg accused of pushing woman down stairs, pleads not guilty; won't be allowed to play

University of Kansas basketball player Carlton Bragg Jr. was arrested and charged with battery on Friday, after reportedly striking a woman and pushing her down the stairs. He pleaded not guilty later the same day.

Tom Keegan: Selection committee biggest loser in NCAA volleyball tournament

The NCAA volleyball tournament resumes Friday with Sweet 16 matches and without Kansas. Send your letters of thanks for that to members of the selection committee for a job horrendously done.

KU senior Landen Lucas believes progress is a big picture thing

Scrutinized and studied for the better part of the 2016-17 season, Kansas senior Landen Lucas admitted on Thursday that he was a little tired of all the negativity but did so in a manner that put the blame on his shoulders. By Matt Tait

Three KU football players among Big 12's top underclassmen

The 2-10 overall record, one Big 12 victory and average Memorial Stadium crowd of 25,828 might have made it less than obvious to perceive in 2016, but the Kansas football team gave second-year head coach David Beaty and his staff numerous reasons to feel upbeat about the program’s future. By Benton Smith

Hanna named Co-Big 12 Golfer of the Month

Kansas senior Chase Hanna has been named Co-Big 12 Golfer of the Month, Kansas Athletics announced Wednesday.

Jayhawks fall to Harvard, drop third game in a row

Kansas women's basketball coach Brandon Schneider chose to shake things up after his team had dropped its last two games. By Shane Jackson

Tom Keegan: Josh Jackson an overachiever and great talent all in one

Pests on a basketball court don’t stand 6-foot-8. They’re 5-8. They don’t make it to the top of the national high school recruiting rankings. They make the team on the last cut in high school because they forced their way onto the roster with sheer hustle.

Dorance Armstrong Jr. joined by Fish Smithson on coaches' All-Big 12 first team

Armstrong first unanimous selection from KU

When it came to the 2016 football season, all of the Big 12’s coaches could agree with members of the media on at least one subject: Kansas defensive end Dorance Armstrong Jr. was easily one of the best players in the conference. By Benton Smith

Bill Self's 600th victory a father-son moment for the ages

He’s played just 84 career minutes in four-plus seasons with the Kansas basketball program, but KU senior Tyler Self, along with fellow fifth-year senior Landen Lucas, has been on the bench for more of Bill Self’s 600 victories than any player on the current Kansas roster. By Matt Tait

Notebook: Jackson played 'best game' of year; Svi starts 2nd half

Kansas men’s basketball coach Bill Self will be the first to point out when one of his players is not playing up to his standards. By Matt Tait

Tom Keegan: Not fool's gold, KU making the most of three-point shooting

Frank Mason, Devonte Graham and Josh Jackson went out of their way Tuesday night in Allen Fieldhouse to try to set up teammates Udoka Azubuike and Carlton Bragg with beautiful passes, but the big men had trouble finishing. By Tom Keegan

Milestone win: Self picks up 600th career victory against UMKC

According to freshman Josh Jackson, the goal in the locker room after Tuesday’s 105-62 thrashing of UMKC at Allen Fieldhouse was to make Kansas coach Bill Self misty-eyed over winning the 600th game of his 24-year coaching career.

Mason scores 30, Self clinches 600th win over UMKC

When you’ve been at it as long as 14th-year Kansas coach Bill Self, you get to experience victories in a variety of fashions. Tuesday night at Allen Fieldhouse, Self’s No. 3-ranked Jayhawks led him to his 600th career victory by way of the three-pointer.

KU picks up another juco D-lineman in J.J. Holmes

For the second time in a week, the Kansas football program has added to its stockpile of defensive linemen by picking up a commitment from the junior college ranks. KU on Tuesday received word from Hutchinson Community College defensive tackle J.J. Holmes that he plans to sign with the program. By Benton Smith

'Proud' Jayhawk Dorance Armstrong now a first-team All-Big 12 defender

AP selects Wise and Smithson for second team

No, the season didn’t go as well for Kansas football as Dorance Armstrong Jr. would’ve hoped. However, the sophomore defensive end entered the winter offseason encouraged. Now KU’s standout defensive playmaker can realize even further gratification. The Associated Press on Tuesday named Armstrong to its All-Big 12 first team. By Benton Smith

Dorance Armstrong Jr. named All-Big 12 first-teamer by AP

Wise and Smithson make second team

After surfacing as one of the most unstoppable defensive players in the conference this fall, Kansas sophomore defensive end Dorance Armstrong Jr. landed on the Associated Press All-Big 12 first team for 2016.

Gameday Breakdown: No. 3 KU basketball vs. UMKC

A look at some of the keys for third-ranked Kansas in Tuesday's home match-up with UMKC. By Matt Tait

For KU's Bill Self, passion for winning remains the same from win No. 1 to the brink of 600

Before the 2008 national championship, the Big 12 title streak, the 210 wins at Allen Fieldhouse and the 599 career coaching victories at four different stops, there was James Kruse, Earl McClellan and a whole bunch of Oral Roberts Golden Eagles just like them. By Matt Tait

Tom Keegan: Another milestone on deck, burnout still nowhere in sight for Bill Self

Barring an upset, Kansas basketball coach Bill Self will earn his 600th victory in his 789th game, tonight vs. UMKC at Allen Fieldhouse, and will become the ninth-fastest in college basketball history to reach the milestone, per the NCCA Records Book. Consider the eight names who reached it more quickly and then ask yourself what they have in common with each other, but not with Self. By Tom Keegan

Jayhawks jump to No. 3 in latest AP Poll

A couple of double-digit victories last week over teams from California proved to be enough for the Associated Press voters to move the Kansas men’s basketball team up a spot in this week’s AP Poll. By Matt Tait

KU women fall to Alabama in OT

Alabama tied the game with a three-pointer at the end of regulation and defeated Kansas, 71-65 in overtime, in women’s basketball Sunday in Coleman Coliseum.

Svi for 3: KU junior filling key role for Jayhawks' offense

The Kansas men’s basketball team is on a tear from three-point range so far this season, and few players have been as dialed in from deep as junior Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk. By Matt Tait

Landen Lucas back, but not all the way back

Sidelined for a game by a strained muscle in the rib-cage area, Kansas senior center Landen Lucas was back Saturday, but still not all the way back to 2015-16 form. By Tom Keegan

Jerod Haase: Return to Allen Fieldhouse was 'an emotional day'

Stanford coach Jerod Haase knew that Saturday would be an emotional day. Returning to a city and an arena in which he was beloved as one of the most popular Jayhawks of the 1990s, Haase brought his strong-but-unspectacular Stanford squad to KU’s campus on Saturday afternoon. By Matt Tait

Tom Keegan: Even Frank Mason can impress himself with highlight play

Newsflash: Frank Mason smiled. And it was a big one. By Tom Keegan

Former KU camper and fan Christian Sanders returns to fieldhouse as Stanford guard

Long before he ever put on a Stanford basketball uniform, Christian Sanders was just a kid in Allen Fieldhouse trying to out-play his fellow campers. By Benton Smith

Threes by example: Graham's big first half sets tone for Jayhawks in 89-74 win

More content to set up teammates than score so far this season, Kansas junior Devonte’ Graham could not help himself Saturday afternoon during No. 4 KU’s 89-74 victory over Stanford at Allen Fieldhouse. By Matt Tait

Jayhawks spoil Haase's return, shoot past Stanford for 89-74 win

The Allen Fieldhouse crowd greeted Stanford head coach and former Kansas standout Jerod Haase with a long ovation prior to Saturday afternoon’s tip-off. The Jayhawks on the court weren’t as kind to Haase’s Cardinal.

Self says KU senior Landen Lucas will play today vs. Stanford

Kansas men's basketball coach Bill Self confirmed to the Journal-World via text message Saturday morning that injured senior forward Landen Lucas would play today vs. Stanford at 2:30 p.m. at Allen Fieldhouse. By Matt Tait

KU volleyball falls short in five-set, NCAA Tournament loss to Creighton

The Kansas volleyball team's dream of returning to the Final Four ended in a wildly suspenseful match when Kansas lost the fifth set to Creighton, 20-18, Friday night in the second round of the NCAA tournament. By Tom Keegan

Gameday Breakdown: No. 4 KU basketball vs. Stanford

A look at some of the keys for fourth-ranked Kansas in today's afternoon clash with visiting Stanford. By Matt Tait

Fewer minutes far from the only way Bill Self seeks rest for key players

Kansas men's basketball coach Bill Self recently explained why he operates with the philosophy that there are more ways to get important players rest during the college basketball season than by limiting their minutes on game nights.By Matt Tait

Creighton volleyball coach Kirsten Bernthal Booth grew up a KU fan

Win or lose in tonight’s match against Kansas, 14th-year Creighton volleyball coach Kirsten Bernthal Booth knows what’s on the play list for Christmas.

Jada Burse makes NCAA volleyball tournament debut memorable in sweep of Samford

Kansas swept its way into the second round of the NCAA volleyball tournament Thursday night in Horejsi Center, but the coach on the receiving end of the broom didn’t sound overly impressed with the Jayhawks.

Bluejays expect scrappy Jayhawks in Round 2 rematch

A lot has transpired in the world since Creighton’s volleyball team faced another one of the nation’s best, Kansas, on a Thursday night in September. So sophomore Bluejays outside hitter Jaali Winters gets a pass for not recalling many of the finer details of the last meeting between the two programs ahead of the rematch — Friday night in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. By Benton Smith

Former Jayhawk Jerod Haase excited for Saturday homecoming with Stanford

Plenty of visiting head coaches have been serenaded with loud and proud boos raining down on them from the Allen Fieldhouse bleachers throughout the years. But it takes a special set of circumstances for a coach other than the one sitting on the Kansas bench to receive a warm welcome from Jayhawk fans. That figures to be what takes place a little before 2:30 p.m. Saturday, when former KU standout Jerod Haase is introduced as the head coach of the Stanford men’s basketball team, in town to take on the Jayhawks on ESPN. By Matt Tait

Tom Keegan: Josh Jackson well on way to becoming Bill Self's best Kansas player

Josh Jackson brings a surplus of smarts, talent and desire to the equation, so there is no reason to believe that he will do anything but steadily improve during his one season in Lawrence. Add it all up and that means he is well on his way to becoming the best player Bill Self has coached at Kansas.

KU volleyball sweeps Samford in NCAA Tournament opener

A year after the program’s first trip to the Final Four, Kansas volleyball opened up the 2016 NCAA Tournament Thursday night with a three-set sweep of Samford on the Jayhawks’ home floor at Horejsi Family Athletics Center.

Landen Lucas' status for Saturday still uncertain

With or without him, Self says Jayhawks are looking for greater inside presence

Kansas coach Bill Self said Thursday afternoon that senior forward Landen Lucas would not practice today and his status was uncertain for Saturday’s 2:30 p.m. tip-off against Stanford at Allen Fieldhouse. By Matt Tait

KU women's basketball falls at Creighton, 69-49

The Kansas women's basketball team saw its three-game winning streak snapped Wednesday in a 69-49 loss against Creighton at D.J. Sokol Arena.

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