Kansas Basketball Player Enters Transfer Portal

Sophomore guard Jamari McDowell announces plans to leave Jayhawks program.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 5:06pm

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting the abstract motion of a basketball player, using the team's official colors to represent the dynamic nature of roster changes in college sports.The departure of reserve guard Jamari McDowell continues a trend of player movement in college basketball as athletes seek more playing time and opportunity.Lawrence Today

Sophomore guard Jamari McDowell has announced he will enter the NCAA transfer portal, leaving the Kansas Jayhawks basketball team. McDowell has been a reserve player for the past two seasons, appearing in 45 games and averaging 2.1 points per game.

Why it matters

McDowell's departure is the latest in a series of roster changes for the Jayhawks, who have seen several key players enter the transfer portal or declare for the NBA Draft in recent years. This continues the trend of increased player movement in college basketball as athletes seek new opportunities.

The details

A native of Kansas City, Missouri, McDowell was a three-star recruit coming out of high school. He has played a limited role for the Jayhawks, averaging just 9.4 minutes per game over his two seasons in Lawrence. With several experienced guards returning, McDowell likely faced an uphill battle for playing time next season.

  • McDowell announced his decision to enter the transfer portal on April 7, 2026.

The players

Jamari McDowell

A sophomore guard who has played a reserve role for the Kansas Jayhawks over the past two seasons.

Bill Self

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

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What they’re saying

“I'm grateful for my time at Kansas and the opportunity Coach Self and the staff gave me. But I feel it's best for me to explore other options and find a new home where I can play a bigger role.”

— Jamari McDowell

What’s next

McDowell will now enter the NCAA transfer portal, where he will be able to explore opportunities at other Division I programs. The Jayhawks will need to fill the open scholarship spot on their roster for the 2026-27 season.

The takeaway

The transfer portal continues to impact college basketball rosters, as players like McDowell seek more playing time and opportunity at other schools. Kansas will have to manage these roster changes as they look to maintain their status as one of the top programs in the country.