Kansas guard Elmarko Jackson has received full medical clearance from head coach Bill Self.
Jackson, who tore his patellar tendon during a youth camp scrimmage last June and missed the entire 2024–25 season, can now fully participate in basketball activities as Kansas ramps up summer drills.
Self confirmed that Jackson is healthy and has not lost any explosiveness. Although his timing and rhythm are still returning, the coach said he expects Jackson to take a major step forward as fall approaches.
A McDonald’s All-American recruit in 2023, Jackson made an immediate impact at Kansas as a freshman, playing in all 34 games and starting 17. He averaged 4.3 points and 1.7 assists per contest before the injury sidelined him.
Losing Jackson was a blow to the Jayhawks, but this news provides a lift. With his role as a guard still evolving, Jackson’s return adds depth and versatility to Kansas’s backcourt. He’ll be surrounded by returning leaders and talented newcomers, which should give him space to regain confidence and find his rhythm.
Jackson’s journey from injury to recovery echoes Kansas’ message of resilience and depth. If he comes back strong, Jackson could have a breakout sophomore year and provide Self with a veteran option capable of shifting momentum in tight games. The Jayhawks will need exactly that as they chase another Big 12 title and push deeper into NCAA Tournament contention.
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