In the midst of a transformative college basketball offseason, Hunter Dickinson, the standout center for the Kansas Jayhawks, has found himself not only at the center of national attention for his on-court presence but also for his vocal role in the ever-evolving transfer portal narrative. As one of the most dominant big men in the NCAA and a seasoned voice in the locker room, Dickinson has made headlines yet again — this time for a public message directed toward one of the top names still available in the transfer market.
Dickinson, who transferred from Michigan to Kansas in 2023 and revitalized his career under head coach Bill Self, understands better than most what it means to make a high-profile transfer. His decision to leave the Wolverines and join the Jayhawks was met with both scrutiny and praise, but ultimately it proved fruitful as he averaged a double-double during the 2024–25 season and helped Kansas make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. Now, he’s using his platform to guide others through the same process.
The target of Dickinson’s message is none other than All-Conference forward Malik Hartman, who entered the transfer portal following a breakout season at a mid-major program. Hartman, a 6-foot-8 forward with elite rebounding skills and a versatile offensive game, has drawn interest from nearly every top program in the country — including bluebloods like Kentucky, Duke, North Carolina, and of course, Kansas.
In a recent interview on a popular college basketball podcast, Dickinson was candid about what it means to transfer to a major program and what Hartman — or any top-tier transfer — should be looking for in their next home.
“You have to go where you’re wanted, not just needed,” Dickinson said. “It’s easy to be lured in by hype, but you need to feel that connection with the coaches and the players. When I came to Kansas, it wasn’t just about basketball. It was about culture, development, and trust. That’s what separates the good programs from the great ones.”
Dickinson’s comments were more than just philosophical musings — they were a clear signal. Though he didn’t explicitly name Kansas as the best fit for Hartman, the implication was evident. As one of Kansas’s leaders and a product of the transfer system himself, Dickinson’s endorsement carries significant weight, especially among players navigating the murky waters of NIL deals, playing time guarantees, and national exposure.
In addition to his on-air comments, Dickinson followed up with a post on social media that stirred even more conversation. Tagging Hartman in a tweet, he wrote: “If you’re looking for a place to grow, win, and be part of something bigger than basketball — you know where to find us. #RockChalk”
The message quickly went viral, with Kansas fans rallying behind the idea of adding Hartman to an already formidable roster. Recruiting analysts speculated that Dickinson’s outreach was more than a friendly gesture — it was part of a
