(BCSNN) — Kansas men’s basketball coach Bill Self ended weeks of uncertainty Wednesday, announcing he will return to the sideline for the 2026–27 season after evaluating his health and future with family and university leadership.

Self, 63, said in a statement that he remains “focused and committed to Kansas” and “competing for a National Championship,” adding that the decision came “with renewed clarity and the ongoing support from our administration.”

The announcement brings a collective exhale across Lawrence, where Self has built one of college basketball’s premier programs. Since arriving in 2003, the Hall of Fame coach has won two national championships, reached four Final Fours and compiled 855 career victories across stops at Oral Roberts, Tulsa, Illinois and Kansas.

Self’s future had been in question after he acknowledged following KU’s season‑ending NCAA Tournament loss to St. John’s that he needed to discuss his health with family before deciding whether to return. He has dealt with multiple medical issues in recent years, including a heart catheterization and stent placement in 2023 and another procedure last July after experiencing concerning symptoms.

He also missed a January game at Colorado this season after being taken to the hospital out of “an abundance of caution.”

“I love what I do,” Self said after the season. “I want to feel good while I’m doing it, though.”

Self’s return comes at a pivotal moment for the program, with the NCAA transfer portal set to open Tuesday — one day after the national championship game — and roster construction for 2026–27 about to accelerate.

“I look forward to seeing and hearing the best fans in college basketball next season at Allen Fieldhouse,” Self said.

Kansas is expected to be active in the portal and on the recruiting trail as Self begins his 24th season leading the Jayhawks.