Flory Bidunga Returns to Kansas: A Key Move for Bill Self’s Rebuild
Kansas Jayhawks fans breathed a collective sigh of relief Sunday as news broke that highly-touted transfer Flory Bidunga will be staying in Lawrence. After a brief foray into the transfer portal, the compelling big man has committed to returning for his sophomore season, marking a pivotal moment in Coach Bill Self’s ongoing roster reconstruction.
A Surprising Turn of Events
Bidunga’s decision is particularly notable because he initially entered the portal with a list of suitors eager to add his size and skill to their programs. Indiana, where he hails from, and Auburn, representing another compelling opportunity, were among the programs that reportedly expressed interest. However, after careful consideration, Bidunga ultimately decided that Kansas remains the best path for his development and championship aspirations.
“I’m really excited to be back for another year to continue to grow and develop and bring a national championship to Kansas,”
Flory Bidunga
Impact on the Jayhawks
This return is a massive win for Self, who has been diligently rebuilding the Kansas roster following a season that fell short of expectations. Bidunga’s presence adds immediate depth to the frontcourt. Coming off averaging 5.9 points and 5.4 rebounds per game as a freshman, the expectations are high for him to take another step forward. With Hunter Dickinson also returning for the Jayhawks, the team will likely expand its options in the paint.
Bidunga will likely see an increase in playing time, potentially surpassing his 16.3 minutes per game average from last season. His ability to score and grab boards will be crucial as Kansas aims to compete at the highest level.
Notable Interest from Other Programs
The fact that Bidunga considered offers from programs like Indiana and Auburn highlights his status as one of the most desirable transfer prospects available. Indiana, his home state, and Auburn, a program known for its impressive recruiting, presented attractive opportunities. However, Bidunga clearly prioritized staying with Coach Self and the established culture in Lawrence.
Key Stats & Background
- Recruiting Rank (2020): Top-20 Recruit
- Freshman Stats: 5.9 Points, 5.4 Rebounds
- McDonald’s All-American: Yes
- Indiana State Player of the Year: Yes (Two-Time)
Bidunga’s recent double-doubles against TCU and UCF further demonstrate his potential to contribute significantly to the Jayhawks’ success. The team’s effort to add both size and scoring punch in the frontcourt continues with Bidunga’s return.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Why did Bidunga enter the transfer portal in the first place?
A: Bidunga initially entered the portal to explore all his options, but he ultimately decided that Kansas remained his preferred destination. - Q: Which other programs were interested in Bidunga?
A: Indiana and Auburn were among the programs that reportedly contacted Bidunga about a potential transfer. - Q: How will Bidunga’s return impact Kansas’s roster?
A: Bidunga adds immediate depth and size to the frontcourt, strengthening the Jayhawks’ overall roster composition.
Did you know? Flory Bidunga’s impressive performance against Houston, including a double-overtime win, showcased his resilience and potential for big-game contributions.
Call to Action: Share this story with your fellow Kansas fans! What do you think Bidunga’s impact will be this season?