On Thursday, Hall of Fame coach John Calipari’s Arkansas Razorbacks defeated Hall of Fame coach Bill Self’s Kansas Jayhawks 79-72 in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, concluding a disappointing season for the Jayhawks, who were ranked #1 in the preseason.
Kansas’ Shocking First-Round Exit: Bill Self & Players React
The Jayhawks headed into the 2025-2026 season with high expectations. However, their journey was filled with irregularities and unexpected setbacks.
The first-round loss against Arkansas exemplified Kansas’ problems, as they were unable to find their rhythm against a formidable opponent.
How much does Kansas need a reconnect?
That is the problem going into the 2025-26 season after the No. 7 Jayhawks were eliminated from the NCAA tournament in the first round by No. 10 Arkansas on Thursday. Despite KU’s late second-half charge, the Razorbacks held on for a 79-72 victory.
Arkansas’ victory ended Kansas’ 17-year winning streak in the first round of the NCAA tournament, which started in 2006.
Following the unexpected exit, Coach Self did not hesitate to admit the team’s weaknesses. He said, “We got off to terrible starts to start the game and the second half. Their length bothered us all night long.” This sentiment highlights the challenges that Kansas encountered in adapting to Arkansas’ defensive techniques.
Following the loss Thursday night, Self said that his team had a competitive squad, but not one that could be compared to the best in the country.
“We’ve got to re-evaluate how we do things and you can’t afford misses. But I will say this, in today’s time, there [are] gonna be schools that do a great job but still, there’s an element of luck involved, I think more now than there was even before”.
Key players failing to make a significant mark on the game. Hunter Dickinson, despite his talent, was limited to 11 points on 4-of-13 shots. Zeke Mayo led the squad with 18 points, but it was inadequate to stop Arkansas’ offensive surge.
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Jonas Aidoo of the Razorbacks had a remarkable performance, nearly quadrupling his scoring average with 22 points and troubling Kansas’ defense.
These problems indicate a crucial offseason for the Jayhawks. Addressing internal factors, improving strategy, and encouraging solidarity will be critical as they strive to restore their prominence in the coming season.
The coaching staff and players’ perseverance will be put to the test as they reflect on this season’s experiences and prepare for future competitions.
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