It's too bad people outside of Lawrence don't fully appreciate what Kansas forward Perry Ellis brings to the table. Maybe he's too quiet. Maybe he's too polite. Maybe he's managed to keep his competitive fire in check, and let it all burn on the court.
Ellis is a rare commodity in today's era of college basketball. A senior who has at least three years under his belt with one program, he's the prototype for what longevity and hard work are all about at the collegiate level.
Consider this: Ellis is the only player in the Big 12 to rank in the top seven in scoring and rebounding. Ellis has snagged nine or more boards in seven games this year.
Only time will tell what his NBA future holds, but he certainly deserves a shot a the next level. Perhaps no one will be happier to see him turn pro than opposing players and coaches.
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Dee Jackson can be reached at dee.jackson@kshb.com.
