In a show of unwavering support, Kansas coach Bill Self took to social media to address what he called a "false narrative" surrounding the injury of guard Kevin McCullar Jr. The talented player is set to miss the rest of the season due to a debilitating bone bruise.

Coach Self released a written statement on social media, just nine hours before his team was scheduled to open the NCAA Tournament. The statement aimed to clarify the situation surrounding McCullar's injury and refute any misconceptions that may have arisen.

Earlier, upon the team's arrival in Salt Lake City on Tuesday, Coach Self revealed that McCullar's knee pain had not subsided, rendering him unable to contribute to the team. He also noted that McCullar had not practiced for six weeks and had tried to play through the pain but ultimately couldn't carry on.

In his statement, Coach Self reiterated these points and expressed his disappointment at the false narrative that has emerged. He emphasized that McCullar had tirelessly worked on his rehabilitation in a bid to return to the court. However, the only way for the bone bruise to heal was through time off, which McCullar had elected not to take.

The coach detailed the setbacks McCullar had faced, including reaggravating the bone bruise during a game against Kansas State on March 5. Despite subsequent attempts to play, McCullar was forced to exit midway through a game against Houston. It was hoped that nine days off would enable him to participate in the NCAA Tournament, but unfortunately, that was not the case.

Coach Self concluded his statement by affirming that the team doctors had collectively determined that McCullar would not be able to play in the tournament. However, he would remain an integral part of the team, taking on the role of an assistant coach during the postseason.

The publication of Coach Self's initial comments had triggered a swift and extensive social media response, with some fans unfairly blaming McCullar for not returning to play. To counter these unfounded accusations, McCullar himself posted a statement asserting that he had done everything possible to recover and contribute to the team.

During press conferences held the following day, Coach Self and several of the Jayhawks players stood firmly in support of McCullar, highlighting the immense effort he had put into his recovery. Center Hunter Dickinson, who had witnessed McCullar's hard work during their shared time in the training room, defended his teammate. He revealed that McCullar had undergone two to three intense rehabilitation sessions every day for the past two months.

Coach Self, addressing the erratic nature of McCullar's injury, acknowledged the player's previous high-scoring performance against formidable competition, highlighting the unpredictability of his condition. He reiterated throughout the press conferences that McCullar had made every effort to play.

As the Kansas Jayhawks embark on their NCAA Tournament journey without McCullar on the court, the team, coaching staff, and fans will undoubtedly miss his contributions. However, the overwhelming support and understanding from Coach Self and his fellow players aim to dispel any unwarranted criticism surrounding McCullar's injury and highlight his commendable dedication to the team.