The Kansas Jayhawks had a unique opportunity at the 2015 World University Games. What will largely be the 2015-16 Kansas team won the gold medal for the United States, topping Germany in the finals.

Kansas/United States went 8-0 in the event to win the gold, but that fact is secondary, when thinking about the experience from a Kansas perspective. The team that Kansas will put on the court next season had the chance to practice and play together, providing valuable experience that will benefit the Jayhawks this season. Many teams take an overseas trip every four years, but this experience topped that, because Kansas had the opportunity to play against the best college players from around the world. That’s much more beneficial than playing against an Italian club team.

Head coach Bill Self had the chance to practice his team prior to and during the event, which allowed Self to further evaluate the talent he has coming back. It also allowed Self to experiment with lineups and substitution patterns that he can use this season.

Kansas should be loaded in 2016, with Perry Ellis, Frank Mason III and Wayne Selden all returning. With that solid nucleus, plus the additions of Carlton Bragg and Lagerald Vick, don’t be surprised to see Kansas contending for the Final Four in 2016.

If the Jayhawks are able to accomplish that feat, there is no doubt that the experience of playing in the World University Games will be looked back on as a factor.

While the Kansas/United States team winning the gold medal was important, it’s the long-term experience that should benefit Self and the Kansas team.

Tim Letcher is a Featured Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @TimLetcher , on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.