Kansas Basketball Reportedly Not Pursuing Former Jayhawks Transfer Portal Target

Amidst a flurry of activity in the transfer portal, Kansas basketball has secured four impressive additions to its roster during the offseason. Head Coach Bill Self has been vocal about the need for changes following one of the program’s most challenging seasons under his tenure. However, despite the significant acquisitions, there remains one open scholarship pending Johnny Furphy’s official departure to the NBA.

Recent discussions surrounding the transfer portal in Lawrence have quieted down following the commitment of former Alabama Crimson Tide guard Rylan Griffen to Kansas. However, according to a report by CBS Sports analyst Matt Norlander, one of the Jayhawks’ targeted portal prospects, Dayton transfer Koby Brea, seems to be slipping out of reach. Kentucky has emerged as the frontrunner for Brea’s services.

So, the B2B champs seem to be mostly set, just waiting on Karaban (in a few weeks) to determine whether or not another 4 would be needed via the portal. Mahaney + McNeeley will play alongside returnees Samson Johnson, Hassan Diarra, Solo Ball, Jayden Ross, Jaylin Stewart + more.

— Matt Norlander (@MattNorlander) April 29, 2024

Brea, a 6-foot-6 guard, spent four seasons with the Dayton Flyers before entering the portal as a graduate transfer. His final list of potential destinations included Kansas, Duke, North Carolina, UConn, and Kentucky, highlighting his appeal to top-tier programs. Yet, it appears that Kentucky has positioned itself favorably in the pursuit of Brea.

Known as the NCAA’s leading 3-point shooter last season, Brea boasted an impressive 49.8% accuracy from beyond the arc, averaging 3.0 attempts per game. His contributions off the bench were vital for Dayton, making him a sought-after commodity in the transfer market.

While Kansas maintains a formidable roster, Brea’s potential addition could have bolstered the team’s perimeter shooting, an area of concern during the previous season. Despite the missed opportunity, the Jayhawks remain positioned as contenders heading into the upcoming campaign.