Kansas Jayhawks forward Bryson Tiller uses one word to describe his game at its best

Bryson Tiller Eyes Dominance in Fresh Start with Kansas Jayhawks

One word defines Bryson Tiller’s game when he’s at his best: dominance. The Kansas Jayhawks freshman forward has been mostly sidelined for the past 15 months due to a lingering ankle injury, but he’s ready to make his mark.

Tiller arrived in Lawrence midway through the 2024–25 school year but spent that time focused on rehabilitation rather than competition. Though he hasn’t logged game minutes, he believes the experience has set him up for success.

“I feel like I already know what to expect,” Tiller told The Kansas City Star. “I’ve seen Coach [Bill] Self in action. I’ve seen him in the locker room. I know what’s coming.”

That insight could prove invaluable. Kansas head coach Bill Self has repeatedly praised Tiller, even calling him a future professional. Tiller models his game after elite NBA talent — Giannis Antetokounmpo, Paolo Banchero, and Kawhi Leonard — and while comparisons to those stars are lofty, he isn’t lacking confidence.

“Being out for the past year basically took away the game I love,” Tiller said. “This year, I’m coming for a lot of heads. I’m just going to be super grateful to be out there.”

Despite the challenges of being injured, Tiller chose not to dwell on what he missed.

“I didn’t spend a lot of time being down,” he said. “I’m just looking forward to each new day.”

Tiller had a courtside view as Kansas, a preseason No. 1 team, underperformed and exited the NCAA Tournament early with a loss to Arkansas. He admits it was difficult watching from the sidelines.

“I definitely wanted to get up there and play,” he said. “But it was a lesson to be learned.”

This season offers a clean slate. The Jayhawks’ roster has undergone a near-complete overhaul, with only center Flory Bidunga returning after playing last season. Tiller, along with Elmarko Jackson, Noah Shelby, and Jamari McDowell, are also back — though none saw court time last year.

“It’s a fresh start,” Tiller said. “I feel like we’re more versatile and more athletic overall.”

As he looks ahead to his true freshman campaign, Tiller has one major goal in mind.

“My goal is really to win a national championship,” he said. “Everybody says it. It’s very hard to accomplish, but I feel like this year, we can really do that.”