Kansas Transfer Addition Keanu Dawes Embraces Possibility of Starting at Center

The Kansas basketball program brought back Tre White via a court injunction last month to bolster the Jayhawks’ roster. He started every game for the Jayhawks last season and figures to slot into a similar role due to his familiarity with Bill Self’s scheme.

One of the biggest things White did for this team was open up its lineup versatility. KU already had a number of talented pieces in its starting unit, but it now can mix and match the most effective groups depending on how they play with each other.

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Since White is projected to re-enter the starting five along with Tyran Stokes at the other forward spot, it created a question of how Utah transfer Keanu Dawes would be utilized. He’s arguably the biggest name the coaching staff acquired on the open market this offseason, but he’s in an awkward position playing alongside two other players around his height.

Rather than rolling out a bigger lineup with limited ball-handling, the Jayhawks could opt to use Dawes as a small-ball five, presenting a possibility that Coach Self mentioned as a “fun” option in a recent interview.

During his brief media appearance on Thursday, Dawes made it clear he’s on board with the idea, too. The Houston native stated he can fill in wherever the team needs him, including at any position in the starting lineup.

“I feel like [me playing the five] brings a lot more spacing,” Dawes said. “A lot of fives don’t have the athleticism or the speed or the quick burst that I have. When I’m at the five, I keep doing my rebounding, but I might be popping more, driving off of closeouts, and just opening more space for the team.”

Mar 22, 2026; San Diego, CA, USA; Kansas Jayhawks head coach Bill Self looks on in the first half against the St. John’s Red Storm during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

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Publish date : 2026-10-10 15:00:00

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