Jayhawks Showcase Promising Talent at Late Night in the Phog

The Kansas basketball programs recently had the opportunity to showcase their talent during the annual Late Night in the Phog event, held at the newly renovated Allen Fieldhouse. Both the men's and women's teams took to the court, providing fans with a glimpse of the exciting season ahead.

Promising Newcomers and Returning Stars Shine in Scrimmages

Men's Basketball Scrimmage Highlights

The men's basketball team's scrimmage was a showcase of both new and familiar faces. Freshman forward Flory Bidunga stood out, scoring 13 points and grabbing a couple of rebounds for the victorious blue squad. On the crimson side, senior forward KJ Adams Jr. led the way with 10 points, a rebound, an assist, and a steal.

Women's Basketball Scrimmage Showcases Offensive Firepower

The women's basketball team's scrimmage highlighted the team's emphasis on 3-point shooting. Freshman guard Carla Osma and sophomore guard Brittany Harshaw each contributed 5 points, while the team as a whole shot an impressive 4-for-9 from behind the arc. Sophomore guard S'Mya Nichols, although scoreless, dished out 3 assists.

Newcomer Shakeel Moore Poised to Bolster Jayhawks' Defense

One of the key newcomers to the Kansas basketball program is Shakeel Moore, who is expected to be the team's "best on-the-ball defender." Head coach Bill Self is excited about the impact Moore can have on the defensive end of the court.

Bill Self Shares Insights on Player Performances

Head coach Bill Self acknowledged that he didn't closely watch the scrimmages, as he was focused on radio duties. However, he was generally pleased with the players' performances, noting that it was their first time playing under the bright lights of Late Night in the Phog, and some nerves were to be expected.

Flory Bidunga Poised to Become a Fan Favorite

Self believes that freshman forward Flory Bidunga has the potential to become a fan favorite, thanks to his ability to make plays above the rim. The coach is excited about the impact Bidunga can have and is hopeful that many of the team's newcomers will emerge as fan favorites.

Hunter Dickinson's Injury Status Addressed

Regarding the men's basketball team, Self provided an update on graduate center Hunter Dickinson, who had a sprained foot and was dealing with an issue he had been experiencing for about a week. Self described Dickinson as day-to-day, indicating that the injury is not expected to be a long-term concern.

Jamari McDowell's Role and Potential Redshirt Discussed

Self also discussed the status of sophomore guard Jamari McDowell, who had 2 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists in the scrimmage. The coach said he had spoken with McDowell's family and that the player is doing well. Self noted that McDowell is one of the players they are considering for a potential redshirt, as he has an advantage over some of the newcomers but could still see his role change in the weeks ahead.

Women's Basketball Coach Aims to Break Home Attendance Record

On the women's basketball side, head coach Brandon Schneider expressed his desire to see the team's fans break the home attendance record this season. Last year, the Jayhawks went 13-1 at Allen Fieldhouse, and Schneider is determined to continue building a strong home-court advantage for his team.