Zeke Mayo #2 of the South Dakota State Jackrabbits
The Kansas Jayhawks faced a disappointing conclusion to what had initially promised to be a successful season, suffering a significant defeat against Gonzaga in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, despite starting the year as the No. 1 overall team.
Kansas appeared to falter due to exhaustion, highlighting the necessity for roster improvements if Bill Self aims to guide the team back to the Final Four in the upcoming 2024-25 season. Particularly, the backcourt lacked sufficient scoring prowess, prompting Self to seek new talent on the perimeter to enhance competitiveness.
While Dajuan Harris Jr. is set to return for another season, the transfer portal presents an ideal opportunity for the Jayhawks to pursue additional talent, a move that is highly anticipated to bolster the team’s prospects moving forward.
Kansas Jayhawks Should Consider Pursuing Guard Zeke Mayo in the Transfer Portal
It seems as though Kansas may have stumbled upon a perfect fit in Zeke Mayo, almost as if a wish had been granted by a genie. With Mayo’s background as a former star at Lawrence High School, his potential addition to the Jayhawks roster aligns seamlessly with the team’s requirements.
NEWS: South Dakota State guard Zeke Mayo plans to enter the transfer portal while declaring for the 2024 NBA Draft, he tells @On3sports.
The 6-4 junior from Lawrence, KS averaged 18.8 PTS, 5.7 REB, and 3.5 AST this season. Shot 39% from three. https://t.co/rzZr73gGuq pic.twitter.com/A1q0kM5T4t
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) March 26, 2024
Having served as a three-year starter at South Dakota State, Mayo boasts impressive statistics, averaging 18.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.1 steals per game this season. His shooting percentages of 46.6% from the field and 39.1% from three-point range, coupled with his high volume of attempts from beyond the arc, further highlight his scoring prowess.
Kansas has already initiated contact with Mayo, recognizing his potential to complement Dajuan Harris’ playmaking abilities effectively. Mayo’s capacity to create his own scoring opportunities, coupled with his proficiency in the pick-and-roll game, could make him a valuable asset alongside players like Hunter Dickinson and KJ Adams.
Freshman to shoot 40%+ 3PT (min. 100 attempts), 90%+ FT on a team that won 15+ games over the last 15 years of college basketball:
Klay Thompson ('09)
Zeke Mayo ('22)Zeke is one of the most underrated shooters in the country. Breakout year coming for him at South Dakota State. pic.twitter.com/YAY1OYGHvX
— Danny Johnson (@dannyjohnson_23) September 7, 2022
Securing a talented player who not only hails from the local area but also fulfills the team’s specific needs is a rare opportunity. Thus, it is imperative for the Jayhawks to act swiftly and decisively in their pursuit of Mayo. Should Kansas successfully acquire the former Jackrabbit, it could significantly bolster their prospects for success in the upcoming season.
