Get ready to witness the rise of a new era in Kansas basketball, where youth meets ambition and every game is a battle for identity. But here’s where it gets intriguing: two freshmen, Kohl Rosario and Samis Calderon, are already turning heads with their relentless work ethic and untapped potential. This season, the Jayhawks roster is a blend of raw talent and seasoned transfers, with only one returning player from last year. And this is the part most people miss—while the team is young, their non-conference schedule is anything but forgiving, featuring powerhouses like North Carolina, Duke, and UConn. So, how will this inexperienced squad measure up? Let’s dive in.
Head coach Bill Self has his hands full molding this group into a cohesive unit. During a recent press conference, he shed light on the progress of two standout freshmen who are refusing to let their age define their impact. Here’s the controversial part: while some might question relying on freshmen in such a demanding season, Self’s comments suggest these players are anything but ordinary.
Kohl Rosario: The Coach’s Dream
Rosario, a late addition to the Jayhawks, has quickly become a poster child for dedication. Self praised his maturity and commitment, noting, ‘He tries ridiculously hard every day… you can tell him what he needs to do, and he’ll put a conscious effort to work on it until he masters it.’ For instance, after being told to focus on offensive rebounding, Rosario went all-in during the next scrimmage, attacking the boards 24 times—even if it didn’t always result in possession. This kind of effort doesn’t go unnoticed, and it’s why Rosario could be a surprise contributor off the bench this season. But here’s a thought-provoking question: Can a player’s work ethic alone bridge the gap between potential and performance in high-stakes college basketball?
Samis Calderon: The Hidden Gem
ESPN analyst Fran Fraschilla called Calderon ‘a steal,’ and it’s easy to see why. With explosive athleticism and a long frame, he’s a prospect oozing with potential. Yet, Self is quick to temper expectations, noting, ‘He’s probably a better prospect than he is a player right now.’ After missing most of last season due to injury, Calderon needs game reps to translate his raw talent into on-court impact. This season might be more about development than dominance for him, but the tools are there for him to become a future star. But here’s the debate: Is it fair to label a player as ‘underdeveloped’ when they’ve had limited opportunities to prove themselves?
The Bigger Picture
Both Rosario and Calderon embody the promise and patience required in college basketball. While they may not be starters this season, their contributions—whether in practice or limited minutes—will shape their long-term growth. Self’s approach is clear: build a foundation now for future success. But as fans, we’re left wondering: How much can we expect from these freshmen in a season where every game is a test? And more importantly, what does their development mean for the Jayhawks’ future?
As the season unfolds, one thing is certain: Kansas basketball is in for a transformative year. Bookmark Through the Phog and follow us on X and Facebook (@Throughthephog) to stay updated on every twist and turn. And don’t forget to share your thoughts—do you think Rosario and Calderon will exceed expectations, or is this truly a developmental season? Let the debate begin!
