Bill Self retirement rumors: What to know about the latest news about Kansas Jayhawks coach originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Bill Self retirement rumors: What to know about the latest news about Kansas Jayhawks coach
Advertisement
The Kansas Jayhawks were bounced in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Tournament by St John’s this past weekend. But the biggest story isn’t what’s next for projected top overall NBA Draft pick Darryn Peterson.
Many are starting to speculate what’s next for Bill Self. The longtime Jayhawks’ coach told reporters he would weigh his options about returning next season, citing health as the main concern.
“I’ll get back and get with family and visit and see what’s going on,” Self said after the Jayhawks lost 67-65 on a buzzer-beater. “I love what I do, I need to be able to do it where I’m feeling good and healthy to do it fairly well. I’ll get back home, and it’ll all be discussed.”
Self, 63, hasn’t had a clean bill of health in recent years.
According to ESPN, “In 2023, he underwent a “standard heart catheterization” after complaining of chest tightness and missed that postseason. In July 2025, he was hospitalized after experiencing “some concerning symptoms,” then underwent a procedure to have two stents inserted into his heart two days later.”
Advertisement
Self was taken to the hospital out of an “abundance of caution” due to being under the weather this past January. Kansas was ready to make a road trip to play Colorado. Self stayed behind in Lawrence and rejoined the team when they returned home.
The rumors about Self’s health have been flying rapidly. But what’s the truth?
“There are some loose rumors out there in CBB circles this morning that Bill Self could announce his retirement from today but a source close to Self tells CBS Sports this is “bad information” and not on the table as of now,” CBS Sports’ Matt Norlander wrote on X.
More:Phil Jackson to UNC viral fake rumors dupe fans about Hubert Davis’ replacement
Advertisement
It’s clear Self is taking time to reflect about everything going forward, along with enjoying some down time.
Self has a 634-167 record since taking over at Kansas in 2003, winning two national championships.
