Kansas Adds Toledo Transfer Leroy Blyden Jr. to Backcourt
The Kansas Jayhawks have bolstered their backcourt with a key transfer, as Leroy Blyden Jr. committed to KU on Sunday, becoming the program’s second addition in the past week after Keanu Dawes.
A Detroit native and incoming sophomore, Blyden spent his freshman season at Toledo, earning MAC Freshman of the Year honors. He averaged 16.4 points, 4.5 assists, and 4.0 rebounds while also earning All-MAC recognition. Blyden stands 6-foot-1 and 175 pounds, and is expected to fill the point guard role left by Melvin Council Jr. He is ranked No. 86 overall and the No. 17 point guard in the transfer portal by 247Sports.
What Blyden Brings to Kansas
Though slightly undersized for a traditional lead guard, Blyden is an explosive athlete with a lightning-quick first step. He can operate both as a facilitator and off-ball scorer, averaging 4.5 assists per game with fewer than two turnovers.
A major upgrade for Kansas is his outside shooting. Blyden shot 40.7% from three on high volume last season, making 2.3 per game—a skill KU has lacked in recent years. His perimeter scoring should open up the floor and provide a new dynamic alongside returning guards.
Blyden is expected to step into a starting role immediately, likely pairing with incoming freshman Taylen Kinney to form a fast-paced, high-energy backcourt. He also excels defensively, averaging 1.8 steals per game, using his quickness to disrupt passing lanes and pressure ball handlers—a perfect fit for Coach Bill Self’s system.
Landing Blyden over other suitors, including St. John’s, is a strong win for Kansas, adding to their growing transfer portal class alongside Keanu Dawes.
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