Bill Self Addresses AJ Storr’s Struggles Ahead of Iowa State Showdown

Storr, a transfer from Wisconsin, has continued to face challenges adapting in Lawrence.
Jan 11, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA;  Kansas Jayhawks guard AJ Storr (2) attempts a 3-point shot against the Cincinnati Bearcats in the first half at Fifth Third Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn Images
Jan 11, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Kansas Jayhawks guard AJ Storr (2) attempts a 3-point shot against the Cincinnati Bearcats in the first half at Fifth Third Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn Images / Aaron Doster-Imagn Images
In this story:

As the Kansas Jayhawks prepare for their massive matchup against No. 2 Iowa State on Wednesday, head coach Bill Self addressed the recent struggles of junior guard AJ Storr.

While the talented guard has shown flashes of potential, his inconsistent play and inability to fully integrate into the team’s system have raised concerns.

"Let's just look at it from a coach's perspective," Self said. "KJ was arguably the best player we had in the second half. And we don't win the game and dominate defensively unless Shak's in the game. So if you look at those two things, Zeke's got to be in the game, Dajuan's got to be in the game."

The comments highlighted the reality that Kansas has leaned heavily on other players in critical moments, leaving Storr searching for his role.

While Self noted that Storr is "definitely making an effort to defend," his inability to consistently contribute on both ends of the floor has hindered the team at times.

"We get so too caught up on different things," Self added, subtly pointing to how the focus on individual players like Storr can detract from the team’s overall effort. “I don’t look at it as AJ, getting him going. I look at it more as getting a team going."

Storr’s lack of rhythm has, at times, disrupted the team’s flow, making it difficult for Self to rely on him in critical situations. With the Jayhawks facing one of their toughest challenges of the season, they’ll need Storr to elevate his play or risk being more of a hindrance than a help.

Kansas will need everyone to be locked in against a disciplined and dangerous Iowa State team, and Storr’s ability to rise above his struggles could be a key factor in whether the Jayhawks can pull off the upset.


Kansas on Sports Illustrated

No. 11 Kansas Defeats Cincinnati in Defensive Grind for Third Straight Win

What Bill Self Said About Kansas' Disappointing Offensive Performance

What Went Right, What Went Wrong in Kansas' Victory Over Cincinnati


Published
Mathey Gibson
MATHEY GIBSON

Mathey Gibson is the Managing Editor for the Kansas Jayhawks On SI. A graduate of the University of Alabama, he has extensive experience covering major college sports, including reporting on Crimson Tide athletics since 2019 for outlets like Alabama Crimson Tide On SI, The Crimson White, and Tide Illustrated. Now focused on Kansas, Gibson has covered significant events such as the NCAA Tournament, College World Series, and the College Football Playoff, bringing a deep understanding of collegiate athletics to one of the nation’s premier programs.