Hunter Dickinson Returns to Kansas Jayhawks

The Kansas basketball program has significantly bolstered its roster during the offseason, securing four prominent transfers following a disappointing conclusion to the 2023-24 season. While starters Dajuan Harris and KJ Adams opted to return for another year in Lawrence, the decision of star center Hunter Dickinson was awaited with heightened anticipation.

After deliberating for over a month on whether to enter the NBA Draft or remain in college, Dickinson, a transfer from Michigan, has reached a conclusion. He has chosen to utilize his final year of eligibility to conclude his collegiate basketball journey at KU. As a Consensus Second-Team All-American, Dickinson aims to guide Bill Self’s squad in their pursuit of a third National Championship.

Hey @H_Dickinson24, have you made a decision yet? Everybody wants to know what you’re thinking

— Bill Self (@CoachBillSelf) April 26, 2024

Hunter Dickinson Returns to Kansas Jayhawks.

Coach Self and Dickinson finalized his return via Twitter, with KU’s head coach prompting his decision and Dickinson affirming his return. While widely anticipated, this move solidifies the Jayhawks as potential preseason favorites. Self later issued a public statement regarding the development.

“This is fantastic news. We’ve experienced many positive developments since the season’s end, and Hunter’s return adds significantly to that. Hunter made a substantial impact on our team last season, demonstrating remarkable consistency despite facing injuries. Beyond his on-court abilities, Hunter exemplifies outstanding leadership and camaraderie. We anticipate him contending for first-team All-American honors next season.”

– Bill Self

Dickinson, who spent three years at Michigan before transferring to Kansas last offseason, lived up to expectations, averaging 17.9 points and a career-high 10.9 rebounds while shooting 54.8% from the field. Although named Big 12 Newcomer of the Year and an All-American, Kansas struggled in the NCAA Tournament due to inconsistent shooting and the absence of All-Big 12 First Team selection Kevin McCullar.

Given his initial collegiate season during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-21, the NCAA granted Dickinson and over 1,000 other players an additional year of eligibility. With projections suggesting he may go undrafted in the NBA Draft, Dickinson, at 23 years old, found the decision relatively straightforward.

Kansas now completes its roster for the 2024-25 season with Dickinson’s return. Enhanced by more perimeter shooters and a stronger supporting cast, he is expected to be a contender for the Wooden Award. Five-star recruit Flory Bidunga will serve as his backup.