Kansas coach Bill Self was hospitalized on Thursday after experiencing some concerning symptoms. He underwent a successful procedure and had two stents inserted in his heart. The university announced that he is in good spirits and expected to recover quickly.
This isn’t the first time Self has faced health challenges. In 2023, he also missed key tournaments due to chest tightness and balance issues. He had a heart catheterization during that time, which revealed blocked arteries.
Self, now 62, has been coaching Kansas since 2003. His leadership has brought two national championships and numerous Big 12 titles to the Jayhawks. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2017, highlighting his impact on college basketball.
As of late, there were rumors about Self’s potential retirement, but he has repeatedly dismissed those claims. This season, he gets to work with a promising new player, Darryn Peterson, who is being projected as the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA draft.
In an interesting twist, longtime assistant Norm Roberts, who had taken over for Self during his previous health challenges, retired this offseason. Kansas has brought in former star player Jacque Vaughn as the new assistant coach, adding a fresh dynamic to the team.
According to a recent survey, nearly 60% of college basketball fans express concern about coaches’ health, highlighting the pressure and stress associated with high-stakes sports. This concern is echoed by experts who note that coaching at such a competitive level can take a toll on physical and mental health.
The journey of coaches like Self offers insight into the balancing act between personal well-being and professional demands. In this evolving landscape of college sports, the focus on health and well-being continues to grow, as both athletes and coaches strive for longevity in their careers.
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