Bill Self Returning to Kansas for 24th Season

Legendary coach to continue leading Jayhawks after retirement speculation

Apr. 2, 2026 at 1:25am

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Kansas basketball coach Bill Self has confirmed he will return for a 24th season with the Jayhawks, ending speculation about his potential retirement. Self, who has led the program to 21 regular-season conference championships, four Final Fours, and two national titles, will look to guide the team to another deep NCAA Tournament run after their second-round exit this past season.

Why it matters

Bill Self's continued leadership of the Kansas basketball program is crucial for the team's sustained success and ability to compete at the highest level. As one of the most accomplished coaches in college basketball history, Self's presence provides stability and a proven track record of winning that attracts top recruits and keeps the Jayhawks among the nation's elite programs.

The details

In a statement, the 63-year-old Self said he remains 'focused and committed to Kansas Basketball competing for a national championship' and looks forward to coaching in front of the 'best fans in college basketball' at Allen Fieldhouse next season. Self has a career record of 840-272, not including 15 vacated wins, putting him 12th on the all-time wins list. He surpassed legendary coach Phog Allen as Kansas' winningest coach in 2024.

  • On April 2, 2026, Kansas released a statement from Bill Self confirming his return for the 2026-27 season.
  • Self's Kansas teams have won 21 regular-season conference titles, four Final Fours, and two national championships during his 23-year tenure.

The players

Bill Self

The 63-year-old is the head coach of the Kansas Jayhawks men's basketball team, a position he has held since 2003. Self is a two-time national champion coach and has led Kansas to 21 regular-season conference titles.

Darryn Peterson

An expected early-round draft pick in the upcoming NBA draft, Peterson is one of the top players on the Kansas roster and could be among the first few selections.

Flory Bidunga

Another Kansas player who could be selected in the 2023 NBA draft, Bidunga is a talented prospect who has drawn the attention of professional scouts.

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What they’re saying

“With renewed clarity and the ongoing support from our administration, I remain focused and committed to Kansas Basketball competing for a national championship. I look forward to seeing and hearing the best fans in college basketball next season at Allen Fieldhouse.”

— Bill Self, Head Coach, Kansas Jayhawks

“I've gone through some stuff off the court, so I'll get back and get with family and visit and see what's going on. I love what I do. I need to be able to do it where I'm feeling good and healthy to do it fairly well. I'll get back home and it will all be discussed.”

— Bill Self, Head Coach, Kansas Jayhawks

What’s next

Self and the Kansas administration will continue discussions about his long-term future with the program, but for now, he has committed to returning for the 2026-27 season.

The takeaway

Bill Self's decision to return to Kansas for another season provides stability and continuity for one of college basketball's most storied programs. As one of the sport's all-time great coaches, Self's presence ensures the Jayhawks will remain among the nation's elite teams and continue to attract top talent to Lawrence.