KU’s Kevin McCullar not expected to give 2nd senior speech, but ‘can’t wait to be back’
Kansas guard Kevin McCullar isn’t expected to participate in KU’s senior-night festivities — namely the postgame speech and pregame ceremony — his mother, Hether McCullar, told The Star.
That’s, in part, because McCullar was a senior in 2022-23. He went through senior ceremonies last year and returned as a super-senior (and graduate student) for 2023-24, Hether said.
“We are Big 12 champs. That’s what I came here to do,” McCullar said at last year’s senior night. “It’s a blessing to wear this uniform and compete every night for this school.”
The plan — for now — is for McCullar to do something at KU’s end-of-season banquet, his mother added.
A KU Athletics official did not return a message when asked about senior-night festivities.
The Jayhawks (21-7, 9-6 Big 12) are set to have their senior night against K-State on Tuesday, March 5, which is KU’s last home game. The Jayhawks have won 40 home finales in a row.
McCullar is currently recovering from a bone bruise in his knee. He has missed four of the last five games, and his status for KU’s game vs. Baylor on Saturday is uncertain.
“I think he’s doing better. I don’t know when he’ll play next,” Self said Thursday. “I think he’s gaining on it. Hopefully, we can get him back out there.
“I would say there is (a chance he could play this weekend) if he could practice full speed today and tomorrow. If he doesn’t practice full speed today and tomorrow, I’d say no.”
McCullar’s absence from the Jayhawks has been notable, as KU is just 2-2 in the four recent games he’s missed. He’s had a stellar year, averaging a team-leading 19.0 points on 46.3% shooting while grabbing 6.4 rebounds per game. McCullar is also an All-America candidate and NBA Draft hopeful.
Ultimately, don’t expect the Jayhawks to rush him on the court.
“The big thing is: I’d like to have him for the postseason where he’s in rhythm and our team has a chance to be the best it can be going into the second week of March,” Self said after KU’s win over Texas on Feb. 24.
Still, McCullar is itching to play.
“He can’t wait to be back playing,” Hether said, “and helping the team.”
