The Kansas Jayhawks’ offseason has undoubtedly been bolstered by the addition of Melvin Council Jr., a player who opted to spend his final year of collegiate eligibility in Lawrence. This strategic move is one that could have serious implications for the team’s performance in the upcoming season.
Council, who previously entered the 2025 NBA Draft pool, announced on Wednesday that he would be withdrawing from the draft and officially joining Kansas for the 2025-26 season. This decision is a significant coup for the Jayhawks, as Council brings with him a wealth of experience and talent.
Last season, he was a standout at St. Bonaventure, earning a spot on the All-A10 Third Team for his impressive contributions. Averaging 14.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 2.1 steals, he led his team as the top scorer and showcased versatility that will be crucial for Kansas. In addition to his offensive prowess, it’s worth noting that Council was a relentless presence on the court, logging significant minutes—an impressive 37.1 per game—across all 34 games he played.
At 6 feet 4 inches tall, Council is not only an offensive threat but also a formidable defender. His defensive skills are highlighted by his ranking in the 99th percentile for steals, which speaks volumes about his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His long arms and quick reflexes allow him to excel both in creating turnovers and defending individual players on the ball.
Joining Council in a promising transfer class are fellow newcomers Tre White from Illinois and Jayden Dawson from Loyola Chicago, diversifying the Jayhawks’ roster and enhancing their depth heading into the season. While many anticipated that Council would opt to withdraw from the draft, his commitment now allows Kansas to confidently integrate this defensive-minded guard into their rotation for the upcoming campaign.
As the Jayhawks prepare to hit the court, the addition of Melvin Council Jr. is one that fans and analysts alike will be eager to watch unfold. With his skill set and experience, he could very well be a key component in elevating Kansas’ competitive edge in the college basketball landscape.
