Kansas Coach Bill Self Weighs In on Mark Turgeon's New Job

Self comments on Turgeon's recent move to Iowa State ahead of Jayhawks' matchup

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Kansas basketball coach Bill Self spoke to reporters on Thursday about his thoughts on Mark Turgeon's new job as the head coach of the Iowa State Cyclones. Self's comments came ahead of the Jayhawks' upcoming game against Iowa State on Saturday.

Why it matters

The relationship between Self and Turgeon, who previously coached at Maryland, is an interesting storyline as the two Big 12 rivals prepare to face off. Self's perspective provides insight into how the coaching change at Iowa State is being viewed by the conference's established powers.

The details

During his press conference, Self expressed enthusiasm for Turgeon's new role, saying "I mean, I love it." The two coaches have a long history of competing against each other, dating back to Turgeon's time at Maryland in the Big Ten.

  • Kansas is set to play Iowa State on Saturday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Bill Self

The head coach of the Kansas Jayhawks men's basketball team.

Mark Turgeon

The new head coach of the Iowa State Cyclones men's basketball team, previously the head coach at Maryland.

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What they’re saying

“I mean, I love it.”

— Bill Self, Head Coach, Kansas Jayhawks (wn.com)

What’s next

The Jayhawks and Cyclones will face off on the court on Saturday, February 15, 2026, providing the first opportunity for Self and Turgeon to match up as conference rivals.

The takeaway

The coaching change at Iowa State has added an intriguing new dynamic to the Big 12 basketball landscape, with Bill Self's positive comments about his longtime peer Mark Turgeon suggesting the two coaches have a mutual respect despite their competitive history.