Big 12 Basketball: Top 10 returning players for 2018-19

LUBBOCK, TX - FEBRUARY 07: Jarrett Culver #23 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders reacts after dunking the basket during the game against the Iowa State Cyclones on February 7, 2018 at United Supermarket Arena in Lubbock, Texas. Texas Tech defeated Iowa State 76-58. (Photo by John Weast/Getty Images) /

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Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images /

3. Udoka Azubuike, Kansas

The Kansas Jayhawks got good news when Udoka Azubuike announced he would return for his junior year. The 7-foot big man put up 13.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per contest during his sophomore season for Kansas. He appeared in just 11 games during his freshman season before suffering a season-ending wrist injury.

As a full-time starter in the rotation this past season, Azubuike excelled with the traditional big man role. He registered six double-doubles in 2017-18, setting new career-highs in both points and rebounds along the way. He put up 26 points on the road against Nebraska back on Dec. 16. On Dec. 29, he snagged 13 rebounds against Texas.

Azubuike will have more to accomplish on his agenda for 2018-19 after getting lots of feedback from NBA teams this past offseason. As one of the lone big man on the roster, he looks to be built to carry the load.

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