The Oklahoma State Cowboys may be looking to make a significant coaching change this offseason, and one name prominently on their radar is Bill Self, the head coach of the Kansas Jayhawks.
This past weekend, the NCAA tournament showcased some of the best teams in college basketball, and Kansas found itself on the wrong side of a dramatic ending, losing to St. John”s on a last-second layup. As a coach who has led Kansas to numerous victories and accolades, including a national championship in 2022, Self”s future has come into question amidst ongoing retirement speculation.
At 63 years old, Self has faced health challenges in recent years, leading many to wonder if he might be contemplating retirement. Despite these rumors intensifying following Kansas”s early exit from the tournament, Self has publicly denied any intentions of stepping away from coaching at this time.
Should Self decide to continue his coaching career, the prospect of him taking the reins at his alma mater could be appealing. Back in 2024, when the Cowboys had an opening for a head coach, there was legitimate interest in bringing Self on board, although negotiations did not materialize. With tensions rising in Lawrence, Kansas, there is a possibility that Self”s next coaching opportunity could be elsewhere.
For Oklahoma State, pursuing Self would be a logical step if he becomes available. His extensive experience and success make him a prime candidate to revitalize a program that has struggled to reach its potential since the departure of Eddie Sutton two decades ago. While any offer would need to align with Self”s aspirations and include a clear plan for immediate success, his ability to transform a program could be precisely what the Cowboys need.
On the other hand, current Cowboys coach Steve Lutz has made incremental progress over his two seasons, but the results have not been sufficient to ensure his long-term position. Although it appears unlikely that Oklahoma State will make a coaching change this offseason as they aim to build upon Lutz”s foundation, the allure of a coach of Self”s caliber could prompt a reconsideration if he expresses interest in joining the program.
As the offseason approaches, all eyes will be on Self”s next move and whether Oklahoma State will seize the opportunity to bring him back to Stillwater.
