Before they were Jayhawks: Elite Eight edition

Before they made their way to college stardom at the University of Kansas, it’s good to remember that just a few years ago these were all just kids with a dream of playing big-time hoops.

It’s not hard to see, even back then, that they were well on their way.

Here’s a look at the Kansas starting five ... before they were Jayhawks.

Perry Ellis/Wichita Heights High

This one should look really familiar ... Wessel to Ellis over and over again. Thanks to Todd Wessel for posting these old-school clips. Crazy to see the connection they had. Three Class 6A state titles was the final proof they were one of, if not the greatest, high-school duo to ever lace it up in Kansas.

Wayne Selden/The Tilton School (N.H.)

The title of this one doesn’t exagerrate. That really is a baptism. What struck me about this clip was how Selden already looks like a grown man. What we’re seeing right now is his game catching up to his physicality and it’s pretty amazing to watch.

Devonte Graham/Brewster (N.H.) Academy

The baby face. The smile. There was no way he was ever going to step on the court at Appalachian State.

Landen Lucas/Westview (Ore.) High

OK, I know he’s a foot taller than everyone else on the court. Unlike some of his cohorts, didn’t finish at a prep school ... took a detour to Findlay Prep in Vegas then went back to finish at home in the Pacific Northwest.

Also, poor number 30.

Frank Mason/Massanutten Military Academy

Did they cast The Flash yet for the new ‘Justice League’ movies? Because Mason should get careful consideration. If you blink you will miss this blur of a human being zooming around the court.

Also ... “It’s too easy.” That’s young-man swag right there.

Oh yeah, don’t forget about these guys. The orirginal “Before They Were” crew.

This story was originally published March 26, 2016 at 7:14 PM.