Isaia, Thomas knew each other before their Kansas visit

When the news came out that Jacob Isaia and Ky Thomas would visit Kansas on the same day not many people would know there is a connection.

Isaia is an offensive lineman from Bishop Gorman in Las Vegas and Thomas a running back from Topeka. The two took the visit Lawrence together and are connected because of their fathers.

Isaia’s father, Sale, coached Thomas in football and lives in Topeka. He moved to Topeka after living in Hawaii because that’s where his brother lives.

The two recruits and their families got a tour of the Kansas program and met with head football coach David Beaty.

“I think Coach Beaty is a straight up guy,” Thomas said. “I like his enthusiasm and his belief in the program and the direction they're headed. I can tell he really cares about his players and creating a family environment. It’s always a good time talking with him.”

Thomas’ father Tobian played for Kansas defensive coordinator Clint Bowen when Bowen was coaching the Topeka Knights arena league team.

“My dad talked about coach Bowen a lot because, he helped him become a better defensive back and it led my dad into coaching,” Thomas said.

Isaia took his first trip to the Kansas campus and is familiar with the program since his father has been living in the state for five years.

“I was surprised by how they treat their players,” Isaia said. “They're an upcoming team that doesn't have a great record, but is improving. They want polys and have a couple on the team. Their facilities are also amazing too. I didn't expect them to spend so much on the player's education and housing.”

Isaia will be a senior and Thomas is in the 2020 class. The Jayhawks were the first to offer Thomas a scholarship.

“It really means a lot to me,” Thomas said. “It’s something that I will always keep in mind and a moment I will always remember. Being recognized by KU is a great honor. I still have a long ways to go in this process. Being from Kansas right in KU's backyard, and close to home with all my family and friends near, KU will always have strong interest.”

Isaia has several offers including Kansas, Kansas State, Michigan State, Hawaii, BYU, Ole Miss, UCLA, Oregon State, Arizona and many others. Since the offers have rolled in his plans on making a decision have changed.

“Well I wanted to commit in August, but due to the amount of schools that are offering now and are coming late, I am deciding to commit later,” he said. “I want to take my time to when it comes to recruiting.”