This Isn't Kansas Basketball Anymore

I never thought I’d say this, but I’m done with college basketball.
This isn’t the sport I grew up loving anymore. It’s not even close.
When I saw Bidunga enter the portal after two seasons, and then hear numbers like $5 million being thrown around, something just snapped for me. And it’s not just him. Every single player who mattered for KU last year is gone except one. One.

What are we even doing?

This has become worse than the NBA. At least in the NBA you understand it’s a business, contracts, trades, free agency, it’s all out in the open. But college used to be different. It meant something. There was identity. There was pride. There was commitment. Now, it’s just a revolving door.

I used to love getting to know these players, where they came from, why they chose Kansas. Watching a kid come in as a freshman, raw and wide eyed, and grow into a leader by his senior year. Watching them build real relationships with teammates, with fans, with Bill Self. Senior Night actually meant something. It was emotional because it was the end of a journey. That’s gone.

Now it’s show up, play a year or two, and move on for more money. No roots. No loyalty. No connection to the program. Kids bouncing between three, four, five schools like it’s nothing.

And honestly, I don’t even blame the players as much as I hate to admit it. The system is broken. We created this. But that doesn’t mean I have to enjoy it. Because I don’t anymore.

I don’t feel connected to the team. I don’t feel invested in players who might be gone in a few months. I don’t care about building something when there’s nothing to build, just a new roster every year.

I used to live and die with this program. March meant everything. A national championship run felt like the culmination of years of watching guys grow together. Now, it just feels hollow.

College basketball used to be about tradition, development, and pride in the name on the front of the jersey. Now it’s about the number on the check. And for me, that’s not worth caring about anymore.

Rock Chalk, always, but this version of college sports, I’m out.

Well written and clearly heartfelt brother Replay.

I've been wrestling with the same emotions the last two years. Neighbor tarheel and I lament what once was . . . (I think he's even over 2022!) I LOVED my years at ole KU, I love the crimson and blue, I love the Jayhawk, the hill, the chant, and so many other traditions. I'll continue my alumni membership -- since it's lifetime status -- but I've got to find a new KU related passion. Add to this the fact that as I age and gradually fall apart my priorities make it harder to "bang my head against the wall" with KU hoops.

Let me propose this: Let's stay connected on this great RCZ board and take a needed break until next season to reassess. Until then, I won't replace the giant KU banner hanging over my outdoor grill area, fly my Jayhawk flag, or otherwise be a big pain to everyone about my proud KU heritage. I'll just lay low and meditate on the matter.

Health and happiness to you all,

RCJHFL

Very well said, Replay. I will always hope for KU wins, but the loses are now easier for me to handle.

I agree 100%
But if we lose Flory to Duke, that will be the biggest loss of all.
I seriously believe if they want to run it like a business then fine. I think they have to sign a contract for 3 years . Period

Flory didn't go to Duke...he signed with Louisville.