The Greatest Kansas Jayhawks Basketball Players of All Time

Kansas Jayhawks: 1956 - 1958

A legendary figure in basketball, Wilt Chamberlain's prodigious talent was evident from the moment he arrived at Kansas in the late 1950s. His imposing physical presence combined with uncanny agility made him a nightmare for opponents, and his dominance on both ends of the court contributed immensely to the Jayhawks' success during his tenure. Chamberlain was a two-time first-team All-American, and although he never won an NCAA championship, he left an indelible mark on the program by leading Kansas to a national runners-up finish. His impact on the game is still felt today, with many regarding him as one of the greatest basketball players to ever set foot on the hardwood.

Kansas Jayhawks: 1984 - 1988

Often considered the greatest Kansas Jayhawk of all time, Danny Manning's career with the team was nothing short of spectacular. Arriving in the early 1980s, Manning immediately made his presence felt, showcasing incredible versatility and skill on both ends of the court. His combination of size, athleticism, and finesse allowed him to dominate opponents, and he would go on to lead Kansas to their 1988 national championship, while also earning the prestigious Naismith Player of the Year award that same season. Manning's exceptional play during his time in Lawrence has firmly cemented his place among the all-time greats in college basketball.

Kansas Jayhawks: 1995 - 1998

An embodiment of hard work and perseverance, Paul Pierce became a star for the Jayhawks in the mid-1990s as a prolific scorer and tenacious defender. After arriving at Kansas through recruitment, Pierce quickly established himself as one of the best players in the nation, earning first-team All-Big 12 honors twice and being named a consensus first-team All-American in his final season. He played a crucial role in guiding the team to multiple conference titles and deep NCAA tournament runs, and his smooth shooting touch and innate scoring ability became his calling cards. Pierce's legacy endures as one of the best Kansas Jayhawks to ever lace 'em up.

Kansas Jayhawks: 1965 - 1969

A dynamic, versatile guard with a smooth offensive game, Jo Jo White was a key contributor to Kansas' success in the late 1960s. White's quickness and ball-handling skills made him a handful for opposing defenses, while his tenacity and relentless work ethic allowed him to excel on the defensive end as well. A two-time All-American, White played an instrumental role in leading the Jayhawks to back-to-back Big Eight titles during his time at Kansas. His impact on the program is still felt today, as he remains one of the most accomplished guards in team history.

Kansas Jayhawks: 2013 - 2014

A towering, nimble big man from Cameroon, Joel Embiid made waves as a Kansas Jayhawk in the early 2010s with his incredible shot-blocking ability and rapidly improving offensive game. Arriving at Kansas as a raw but intriguing prospect, Embiid quickly developed into one of college basketball's most dominant forces. His unique blend of length, agility, and basketball IQ helped him excel on both ends of the floor, earning him Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honors in his lone season at Kansas. While injury ultimately cut his collegiate career short, Embiid still left a lasting impression on the program, and he continues to etch his name in the annals of basketball history as an NBA superstar.

Kansas Jayhawks: 1999 - 2003

An all-around talent with an unmatched work ethic, Kirk Hinrich played a key part in Kansas' success in the early 2000s. A versatile player capable of running the point or playing off the ball, Hinrich won the hearts of Jayhawks fans with his tenacious defense, pinpoint shooting, and floor generalship. He accumulated numerous accolades during his time in Lawrence, including All-Big 12 honors and multiple All-American selections. Under Hinrich's steady hand, the Jayhawks captured several conference titles and consistently made deep NCAA tournament runs.