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Bill Self Reacts: Kansas fans had plenty to smile about on Friday night. The Kansas Jayhawks delivered a strong and confident performance, beating the Baylor Bears 80–62 at home. The win helped Kansas move to 3–2 in conference play and showed clear signs of improvement on both ends of the floor.
After the game, head coach Bill Self spoke with the media and shared honest, detailed thoughts about his team’s progress, player performances, and what lies ahead. His comments offered a clear look into what worked well and where Kansas still needs to grow.
Below is a full, easy-to-understand rewrite of Coach Self’s key takeaways from the night.
Kansas Controls the Game From Start to Finish
Playing inside Allen Fieldhouse, Kansas came out with strong energy and never allowed Baylor to take control. The Jayhawks moved the ball well, protected possessions, and finished plays at the rim.
Coach Self emphasized that the execution level was much better than in recent games. While intensity was there before, this time the offense flowed more smoothly, leading to high-quality scoring chances.
Darryn Peterson and Flory Bidunga Shine Together
A Balanced and Efficient Performance
One of the biggest positives from the game was how Darryn Peterson and Flory Bidunga played together. According to Coach Self, their chemistry stood out.
He explained that both players were extremely efficient, combining to shoot 22-of-27 from the field, while the rest of the starters struggled. Despite that imbalance, Kansas still won comfortably, which shows how dominant Peterson and Bidunga were.
Coach Self also noted that this may have been Flory Bidunga’s best game of the season, praising his confidence and decision-making.
Team Looks More Comfortable With Peterson Leading
Growing Trust and Confidence
Coach Self admitted that earlier in the season, the team did not always look comfortable playing alongside Peterson. In some games, other scorers seemed unsure of their roles.
That has now changed. Over the last two games, Kansas has looked more connected and confident, with players no longer feeling like they need Peterson off the floor to succeed. This balance is a major step forward for the Jayhawks.
Clean Ball Movement and Low Turnovers
One stat Coach Self highlighted was the team’s ball security. Kansas finished with just four turnovers, which is a huge improvement.
He explained that even when shots did not fall in the first half, the team was still attacking the basket and moving the ball to the right spots. This smart offensive approach kept pressure on Baylor’s defense throughout the game.
Key Team Stats From the Win
| Category | Kansas Performance |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Kansas 80, Baylor 62 |
| Conference Record | 3–2 |
| Turnovers | 4 |
| Peterson & Bidunga FG | 22-of-27 |
| Location | Allen Fieldhouse |
Why Darryn Peterson Left the Game Briefly
During the second half, fans noticed Peterson step out of the game. Coach Self clarified that Peterson asked to come out around the 16-minute mark.
Although Self sent him back in briefly, Peterson asked to come out again soon after. The move was precautionary, and there was no major concern shared after the game.
Jayden Dawson’s Three-Point Shot Changed Momentum
Coach Self called Jayden Dawson’s late first-half three-pointer the biggest shot of the game.
At the time, Kansas was trailing by one point. Dawson’s shot gave the Jayhawks momentum heading into halftime and helped swing confidence back to the home side.
Road Challenges Ahead Against Colorado
Looking forward, Coach Self was honest about Kansas’ struggles away from home. He said the team has not played its best basketball on the road this season.
The upcoming matchup against Colorado Buffaloes presents another chance to improve. While home games offer comfort and confidence, Self stressed that true growth comes from winning away games.
Shorter Rotation Is Working Right Now
Fewer Players, Better Rhythm
When asked about Kohl Rosario’s role, Coach Self explained that the team is currently playing better with a shorter rotation.
While he made it clear that Rosario still has a future with the program, Self believes that using fewer players right now helps maintain rhythm and focus. His main goal is simple: win games.
Kansas’ win over Baylor was more than just a strong result on the scoreboard. It showed improved chemistry, better execution, and growing trust among key players. Coach Bill Self’s comments highlighted a team that is learning, adjusting, and slowly finding its identity.
With tough road games coming up, Kansas now has a chance to prove that this progress can travel beyond Allen Fieldhouse. If the Jayhawks continue to protect the ball, trust each other, and stay disciplined, they are well-positioned for a strong conference run.