Bill Self's Letter To Santa

Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

Dear Santa,

I've been a good basketball fan and coach not only during the season, but all year long.

Just like you asked, right?  And now that I've held up my end of the deal, here's what I need you to do on yours...

First of all, I'd like Xavier Henry to keep getting better defensively each and every game. 

His team-leading 16.8 points per game are great, and 4.4 rebounds certainly doesn't hurt either.  However, I can't think of anyone else on this team who will match up as well against Damion James, James Anderson, Mike Singletary, and Marquis Gilstrap playing down the stretch.

Speaking of Henry's, I could use some Lime-Away for the elder one.

C.J.'s shot looks pure, and he appears to be at full strength.  However, he has struggled, even in late-game no-pressure situations, to handle the ball or defend with the maturity that I expected.  I'm sure he's just a bit rusty, but this Henry brings a bigger, more-athletic element to the court that I could really use from a guard, especially on defense.

Next, I need you to make sure Jeff Withey will have shaken off injury and be ready to go come the New Year.

Despite the presence of an All-American in our frontcourt, my Jayhawks only managed to match Tennessee Tech last Friday in total rebounds, and we were actually out-rebounded by Central Arkansas!  Right now I lack true size behind Cole Aldrich, but I think a prepared Jeff Withey will be just fine.

Finally, I'd like to know what Sherron Collins has been eating for breakfast.  And whatever it is, I want some too.

Collins is shooting over 55 percent from the field so far this season, which is even more impressive considering that more than half of his attempted and made field goals have come from beyond the arc!

Actually, maybe you should check into Markieff Morris' 93 percent from the field (14 of 15 shooting this season), and get your hands on some of those cookies.

Speaking of cookies, I apologize, but I don't have any for you.  I sent them to the Manginos' house with a sympathy card.

Milk's in the fridge, though.  Help yourself.

Sincerely,

Bill

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