Kansas Secures First Transfer Addition with Utah Forward Keanu Dawes
After a slow and somewhat tense start to the offseason, Kansas basketball has officially made its first move in the transfer portal. The Jayhawks picked up their initial commitment of the cycle on Thursday.
Per reports from Jonathan Givony of DraftExpress and others, former Utah forward Keanu Dawes is set to transfer to Kansas following a recent visit to Lawrence.
The 6-foot-9 junior is coming off a strong season in which he averaged 12.5 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists while shooting 54.6% from the field and knocking down about one three-pointer per game. He has also entered the NBA Draft process while maintaining his college eligibility.
Dawes becomes the first portal addition for head coach Bill Self, and he represents a significant pickup. Widely regarded as one of the top forwards available, Dawes brings a well-rounded skill set and proven production.
A Houston native, he spent the past two seasons at Utah after beginning his college career at Rice, where he earned AAC All-Freshman Team honors. With one year of eligibility remaining, he’ll finish his collegiate career in Lawrence.
What Dawes adds to the roster
Dawes makes his biggest impact around the basket and on the boards, using his athleticism to finish above the rim and control the glass. However, he also has the ability to step out and shoot, hitting threes at a respectable rate, which allows him to function as a stretch-four option.
With Bryson Tiller no longer on the roster, Dawes is expected to step into a similar role in the frontcourt. While he shares a comparable skill set, Dawes offers more experience and a more developed offensive game.
At 6-foot-9 and 225 pounds, he also provides defensive versatility, capable of guarding multiple positions. His role could mirror what Tre White brought to the team, though like White, Dawes is likely a one-year addition who will need to adjust quickly.
Kansas still has work to do this offseason, but landing Dawes gives the program a much-needed starting point in the transfer portal, with more additions likely on the way—especially as they await a decision from top prospect Tyran Stokes.
Leave a Reply