LAWRENCE, Kan. -- Thousands of fans gathered in Lawrence, Kan., Tuesday to welcome the Jayhawks' home and celebrate their national title.

"I can't imagine that there's any place that's better to coach and play at than the University of Kansas," coach Bill Self told the crowd.

Self introduced each player and each player spoke to the fans.

He called Mario Chalmers the player who "made the biggest shot in the history of Kansas basketball." Chalmers hit a three-point shot to send the Jayhawks into overtime against Memphis and a victory.

"I just want to thank everybody for the love and support," Chalmers said. "You guys stuck with us through thick and thin."

Chalmers also thanked his fellow players, the seniors and the coaching staff.

The celebration ended with Self introducing Rodrick Stewart, who fractured his knee in an open practice before the North Carolina game. He was unable to play and will require surgery.

Stewart said, "I heard everybody cheering my name at the end of the game and that really touched me."