Bill Self Comments on Interest from NBA Teams, Warriors vs. Cavaliers, More
Kansas men's basketball head coach Bill Self has heard rumors of interest from the NBA, but he does not envision leaving Lawrence, Kansas, anytime soon.
On Friday, Self spoke to 610 Sports' Bob Fescoe about NBA talk, which the coach said he does not pay much attention to (via KUSports.com):
"I haven’t really heard that much. There’s been some media reports that obviously don’t mean much. I’ve said all along I’m totally content here. I really haven’t had any reaction. I heard a little bit about the Rockets. I even had media call me about the Pacers (opening in Indiana). There was no interest I don’t think on their behalf at least that I’m aware of and certainly I’ve got such a good gig here.
I guess it is nice, but to be honest with you it doesn’t do anything for me to be real candid with you, because I know at this point in time there would be no way that I would ever consider doing that.
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ESPN's Marc Stein reported May 4 that the Houston Rockets were "intrigued" by Self and Texas head coach Shaka Smart.
Since taking over the Jayhawks in 2003, Self is 385-83 with a national championship in 2008. The program has made the NCAA tournament every year under Self, and Kansas has won the Big 12 regular-season title 12 years running.
Self also commented on the 2016 NBA Finals, and he is not going with the favorite to hoist the Larry O'Brien Trophy.
"You have the two best players in the world right now that may not be the best players on their respective teams on a given night. Klay Thompson could be that or Draymond (Green) could be that. Kyrie (Irving) or Kevin (Love) could be that. ... Obviously [the Cavaliers] are going to have to win in Oakland to have a chance (since Warriors have home court advantage). I kind of think the Cavs will get it done.
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He added that he thinks LeBron James is on a personal mission and will not be stopped. He also said he thought the Oklahoma City Thunder were the best team in the league this season.
Kansas is one of college basketball's premier programs. The Jayhawks were the NCAA tournament's top seed last year, and they look to be just as stout next season with a recruiting class that includes Josh Jackson, the nation's top-ranked player, per 247Sports.
Self makes $3.857 million per year, according to ESPN. That is more than eight NBA coaches, per OtherLeague.com. So it makes sense from a financial and professional standpoint for Self to remain at Kansas.
