One week after becoming the winningest coach at Kansas, Bill Self joined an elite group of active Division I head coaches with 800 wins, alongside John Calipari and Rick Barnes. The top-ranked Jayhawks secured an 84-66 victory over UNC Wilmington, showcasing a strong second-half performance to extend their lead.
Self, who expressed room for improvement despite the win, is now in esteemed company with the likes of legendary coaches such as Mike Krzyzewski, Jim Boeheim, and Roy Williams, all boasting at least 800 wins in their careers.
Self's coaching journey began in 1993 at Oral Roberts, followed by stints at Tulsa and Illinois before taking over at Kansas in 2003. Last week, he surpassed Phog Allen as the winningest coach in Kansas history with his 591st win in 22 seasons.
Despite facing challenges, including a vacated season due to recruiting violations, Kansas remains committed to Self, evident in his recent lucrative contract extension. The Hall of Famer, who has his sights set on a third national championship, has no immediate plans for retirement, emphasizing his dedication to the game.
Self's coaching legacy is marked by his resilience and success, with students honoring him through banners and tributes. As he continues to lead the Jayhawks, his impact on the basketball world remains profound, with players acknowledging his winning mentality and leadership.
With milestones reached and more victories on the horizon, Bill Self's legacy as a basketball coaching icon continues to grow, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
