The Kansas Jayhawks are reportedly setting their sights on Arafan Diane, a top-ranked big man in the 2026 recruiting class.
As shared on Diane’s X account, Kansas head coach Bill Self offered him a scholarship on Saturday afternoon.
Arafan Diane, a rising senior at Iowa United Prep, stands out as a dominant 7-foot-1, 260-pound center in the 2026 recruiting class.
Ranked No. 23 overall and the top center by 247 Sports — and No. 39 overall and No. 3 at his position by On3 — Diane is widely regarded as one of the most promising big men in the country. Known for being a physical presence in the post, he effectively uses his size to control the paint.
Primarily a back-to-the-basket scorer, the 17-year-old also shows touch from mid-range and shoots efficiently from the free-throw line.
He showcased his talent on the international stage with the Guinean National Team at the U17 World Cup last year, averaging an impressive 19.1 points and 11.7 rebounds per game.
This weekend, Diane revealed scholarship offers from programs like UConn, Indiana, Houston, and Purdue — likely tied to his showing at the 2025 NBPA Top 100 Camp. Though he hasn’t taken any official visits yet, one could be scheduled soon.
Kansas’ offer makes Diane the latest big man targeted by the Jayhawks, joining fellow 2026 recruits Ethan Taylor and Sam Funches.
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