The Jayhawks lost their entire starting lineup and two reserves to the NBA draft following the 2008 season, returning only two role players from the NCAA Championship squad. However, Self did have the 9th best recruiting class in the nation, with two future NBA players Markieff Morris and Marcus Morris. With guard Sherron Collins and center Cole Aldrich, Self responded by coaching the team to a 27–8 season record, a Big 12 championship, a Sweet Sixteen showing in the NCAA Tournament, and several national coach of the year awards.