From South Dakota to Kansas
Zeke Mayo's road to the TBT semifinals started in Lawrence, where he wrapped up his college years with the Kansas Jayhawks. The hometown star guided the Kansas alumni group JHX to the heart of The Basketball Tournament, before falling to the Kentucky alumni team La Familia in the semifinals. Though the title stayed out of reach, Mayo's impact was clear.
After getting an invite from former teammates Ty and Sharon, Mayo made his TBT debut last summer. That experience led to his strong showing this year with JHX Hoops.
G League and NBA ambitions
Prior to the tournament, Mayo spent the 2025-26 season with the NBA G League’s Cleveland Charge, averaging 8.2 points per game. He then joined the Atlanta Hawks for the NBA Summer League. His play caught the eye of JHX Hoops co-founder Tyshawn Taylor, who believes Mayo is on the right track for the NBA.
Taylor praised Mayo's skills and growth. 'The season that he played, I’ve been following him through his progression in the league.' Mayo now waits to see where his future lies. While uncertain about his next move, he hopes to stay with Atlanta, where he played summer league this year.
A player with purpose
For Mayo, donning the Kansas colors in the TBT is about more than just winning. Playing for his hometown and former team is a source of deep pride. His path from SDSU's Jackrabbits to the Kansas alumni roster shows a career still in motion.
Looking to the future, Mayo stays focused and driven. 'Not exactly sure where I’ll end up,' he said. 'I’m just going to take it one day at a time, continue to work my butt off.'