The Kansas Jayhawks will be without their star center Hunter Dickinson for Friday’s highly-anticipated charity exhibition game against the No. 16 Arkansas Razorbacks. The 7-foot preseason All-American aggravated a foot injury during last week’s “Late Night in the Phog” event and has been held out of practice. Despite this setback, Kansas head coach Bill Self remains optimistic about Dickinson’s recovery timeline.
Self Addresses Dickinson’s Injury Status
In a conversation with ESPN after Thursday’s practice, Coach Self provided an update on Dickinson’s condition. While the star big man will miss the Arkansas game, Self expects him to return to the court soon.
We won’t be near as good offensively [without them against Arkansas].
Bill Self, Kansas Head Coach
Self noted that Dickinson is projected to resume practicing with the team over the weekend. The coach also expressed hope that the junior center, along with injured transfers Rylan Griffen and Shakeel Moore, will be available for Tuesday’s exhibition against Washburn.
Jayhawks Aim to Test Mettle Against Razorbacks
Friday’s sold-out event at Bud Walton Arena promises to be a tough early test for the Jayhawks. Coach Self views the hostile road environment as an opportunity to gauge his team’s resiliency.
I think [we will learn] just how the guys handle adversity. Each team is different. Obviously, with a new team this year, we don’t know what to expect when stuff hits the fire. And I think that’ll be a good test for us.
Hunter Dickinson, Kansas Center
Razorbacks Also Shorthanded for Exhibition
Arkansas head coach John Calipari revealed that his squad will also be missing several key players for the clash with Kansas. Despite the absences, Calipari expressed excitement about the game and the opportunity to lead his team out of the home tunnel for the first time.
We are looking forward to an incredible atmosphere in Bud Walton Arena tomorrow night! Can’t wait to walk out of the home [team’s] tunnel for the first time! Let’s do this!
John Calipari, Arkansas Head Coach
Game to Benefit Children’s Hospitals
Fans will pack the arena not only to witness a preseason showdown between two powerhouse programs but also to support a worthy cause. Arkansas will donate its portion of the game’s proceeds to Arkansas Children’s Hospitals, while Kansas will contribute to the Fore The Kids Foundation.
Jayhawks Begin Quest to Defend Title
As the reigning national champions, Kansas enters the 2024-25 season with a target on its back. Coach Self and his staff worked diligently during the offseason to bolster the roster’s depth, an area that challenged the Jayhawks at times last year. The Arkansas exhibition marks the first step in their title defense, with the regular season set to tip off on November 4 against Howard.
While Dickinson’s absence may temper expectations for the Jayhawks’ performance against Arkansas, the game still offers valuable insights into the team’s potential. As Coach Self and his players navigate early adversity, their response could set the tone for another memorable campaign in Lawrence.
