The Kansas basketball team wrapped up its nonconference slate with a strong 9-2 record, setting the stage for a grueling Big 12 schedule. The first conference matchup comes on New Year’s Eve against West Virginia, so head coach Bill Self’s squad will look to build momentum as they aim for a deep March Madness run.
While college basketball continues to rely heavily on the transfer portal, Kansas has often failed to get its newcomers acclimated. One of the more notable struggles has come from guard AJ Storr, a transfer from Wisconsin. Despite the slow start, Coach Self offered some optimism during a Friday media session, revealing that Storr had shown encouraging signs in recent practices.
Bill Self encouraged by AJ Storr’s recent practices
“We actually had a good practice today. A.J. (Storr) has had a great two days since he’s been back. He seems to be excited, anxious to get going again.”
Bill Self
Storr was the best player on a Wisconsin team that was a No. 5 seed in last year’s NCAA Tournament and earned All-Big Ten honors after averaging 16.8 points per game. However, his transition to KU has been far from seamless. In addition to his on-court challenges, Self has called him out publicly at times, even going as far to say he ‘doesn’t know what aggressive looks like’ last month.
Through 11 games, Storr is averaging a career-low 7.9 points, along with 2.1 rebounds and 1.1 assists, while shooting 40.7% from the field. These numbers are a significant drop-off from his previous production, leaving Jayhawks fans concerned about his role moving forward.
Kansas fans are no strangers to transfers needing time to adjust under Self’s system. Remy Martin experienced similar struggles during the 2021-22 season before emerging as a key contributor during the Jayhawks’ national title run. Storr possesses a similar ceiling with his ability to attack the rim, shoot decently from the outside, and provide length in the backcourt that KU’s other guards lack.
Ultimately, Storr could be this team’s X-factor. Whether his struggles stem from confidence issues or difficulties fitting into KU’s offense, the Jayhawks will need him to step up if they hope to make a push for another title.
