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Shakeel Moore’s Injury Update
Kansas Jayhawks guard Shakeel Moore is facing a significant setback after undergoing surgery to repair a broken foot. The injury, sustained during a recent pickup game, is expected to sideline Moore for up to eight weeks, according to the school. This news puts a dent in Kansas’ preparations for the upcoming 2024-25 season, which kicks off on November 4 against Howard. Kansas, a favourite to be ranked No. 1 in the preseason polls, now has to navigate the early season without one of its key backcourt additions.
Moore’s Journey to Kansas
Moore joined Kansas in June as a fifth-year senior after transferring from Mississippi State, where he spent three seasons. He originally started his collegiate career at North Carolina State during the 2020-21 season before moving to Mississippi State. Last season, Moore averaged 7.9 points, 1.8 assists, and 23.5 minutes per game across 33 games (22 starts) for the Bulldogs. His arrival was timely for the Jayhawks, who had just lost sophomore guard Elmarko Jackson to a season-ending knee injury.
Head coach Bill Self expressed optimism about Moore’s fit within the team, stating back in June: “Shakeel is a combo guard who can play on and off the ball. He’s a terrific athlete, and we feel like he will be a nice complement to the personnel already on the roster.”
Kansas’ New Backcourt Depth
Despite Moore’s injury, Kansas boasts a deep and talented backcourt. The team returns key players like Dajuan Harris Jr., who averaged 8.5 points and 6.5 assists last season. In addition, the Jayhawks secured several transfers, including Rylen Griffen from Alabama, AJ Storr from Wisconsin, and Zeke Mayo from South Dakota State. Mayo, the 2023 Summit League Player of the Year, is expected to play a pivotal role this season, potentially filling the gap left by Moore and Jackson.
Eyes on a National Title Run
Kansas, coming off a 23-11 season, is once again positioned as a national title contender. With the return of veteran players such as forward KJ Adams Jr. and center Hunter Dickinson, both of whom were part of the Jayhawks’ 2022 national championship team, the squad remains strong despite early setbacks. Moore’s return could provide a boost as the season progresses, giving Kansas the depth it needs to compete at the highest level.
As the Jayhawks prepare for their season opener, fans and coaches alike will be hoping for a speedy recovery for Moore, with expectations high for another championship run.
