LAWRENCE, Kan. — Flory Bidunga, the standout sophomore center for the Kansas Jayhawks, is set to declare for the NBA draft while preserving his college eligibility, according to sources familiar with the matter. The 6-foot-10, 235-pound big man also plans to enter the NCAA transfer portal when it opens on Monday, keeping his options open for a potential return to college basketball next season. This dual move, first reported by ESPN on Thursday, positions Bidunga as one of the most intriguing figures in the evolving landscape of college hoops, where players increasingly test the professional waters without fully committing.
Bidunga's decision comes at a pivotal time for the Jayhawks, who are navigating a roster overhaul following a season that saw them finish with a strong record but fall short of another national title run. As a key contributor on both ends of the floor, Bidunga averaged 13.3 points and 9.0 rebounds per game during the 2023-24 campaign, anchoring Kansas' frontcourt. His rebounding prowess placed him third in the Big 12 conference, while his defensive impact was undeniable—he led the league with 2.6 blocks per game, making him a finalist for national defensive player of the year honors.
Offensively, Bidunga's efficiency stood out in a league known for its physicality. He topped the Big 12 in field goal percentage at 64%, a mark that was nearly 7 percentage points ahead of the next closest shooter. Sources told ESPN that Bidunga's blend of size, skill, and rim protection has drawn interest from NBA scouts, with ESPN's Jeremy Woo projecting him as a second-round pick, potentially at No. 44 overall in the upcoming draft.
The transfer portal, which formally opens the day after the NCAA men's championship game on Monday, has already seen intentions from more than 800 players, according to ESPN's Jeff Borzello. If Bidunga enters as expected, he would immediately emerge as the crown jewel among that group, given his production and upside. In an era where elite big men are scarce commodities, Bidunga's availability could spark a bidding war among power-conference programs seeking to bolster their rosters.
For context, the NCAA's evolving rules have empowered players like Bidunga to explore professional opportunities without burning bridges back to college. Under the current system, undergraduates can declare for the draft and receive feedback from NBA teams while retaining eligibility to return, provided they withdraw by a specified deadline—typically in late May. This flexibility has become a staple for top talents weighing their futures, especially in the wake of the NIL era and the transfer portal's expansion.
Bidunga's journey to this crossroads began in his freshman year, when he transferred from Kokomo High School in Indiana to Kansas after a dominant high school career. As a true freshman, he showed flashes but adapted quickly to the college level. This season's leap in production, particularly in the paint, has solidified his status as a cornerstone for coach Bill Self's program, which has long emphasized dominant post play.
ESPN sources emphasized that Bidunga is approaching this decision methodically, consulting with his representatives and family. "He's keeping all doors open," one source close to the situation told ESPN, highlighting the player's intent to gauge NBA interest without rushing into a full departure from college. Another insider noted the strategic timing, aligning the declaration with the portal's opening to maximize leverage in potential transfer negotiations.
On the NBA front, the draft landscape for big men remains competitive. While first-round locks like Purdue's Zach Edey dominate headlines, second-round selections like Bidunga offer teams developmental potential with immediate defensive contributions. Woo's projection places him in a range where teams often seek value picks who can contribute off the bench early, drawing comparisons to versatile forwards who have succeeded in the league after similar college paths.
Kansas, meanwhile, faces ripple effects from Bidunga's potential exit. The Jayhawks have relied on his rebounding and shot-blocking to complement their guard-heavy offense, and losing him could necessitate a high-profile addition via the portal or recruiting class. Self, known for his portal savvy, has already been active in recent offseasons, landing transfers who fill critical gaps. Sources indicate that Kansas is prepared for various scenarios, including Bidunga's return if draft feedback suggests more seasoning is needed.
The broader college basketball market underscores Bidunga's value. In recent years, transfers of elite bigs have commanded significant NIL deals and roster spots at blue-blood programs. Players like Hunter Dickinson, who moved from Michigan to Kansas last season, exemplify how such moves can reshape teams. If Bidunga opts to transfer, programs in the SEC, Big Ten, or even overseas leagues could enter the fray, though his draft eligibility adds a layer of complexity.
Defensively, Bidunga's accolades speak volumes. His 2.6 blocks per game not only paced the Big 12 but also ranked him among the national leaders, contributing to Kansas' reputation as a stout defensive unit under Self. Teammates and coaches have praised his instincts, with one anonymous Jayhawk source telling ESPN that Bidunga's presence altered opponents' strategies around the rim.
Looking ahead, the timeline is tight. The NBA draft combine is scheduled for mid-May in Chicago, where Bidunga could showcase his athleticism to scouts. Withdrawal deadlines loom, forcing a decision by May 31 for those preserving eligibility. Meanwhile, the transfer portal's 30-day window post-championship game will see frenzied activity, with Bidunga at the center if he follows through.
Implications extend beyond Kansas. The Big 12, already bracing for portal chaos after realignment, loses a defensive anchor if Bidunga departs. For the NBA, he represents the next wave of international-flavored talents—Bidunga hails from the Central African Republic—blending physicality with skill in a position that's increasingly vital amid the league's emphasis on spacing and versatility.
As the dust settles from the Final Four, Bidunga's story encapsulates the fluidity of modern college athletics. Players now navigate a web of decisions involving agents, NIL collectives, and league feedback, all while programs adapt to retain talent. Sources close to Bidunga stress that no final choice has been made, but his entry into both the draft and portal signals a player poised for a major leap, wherever that path leads.
In Lawrence, fans and analysts alike await clarity, knowing that Bidunga's versatility makes him a hot commodity. Whether he suits up for an NBA team next fall or bolsters another college powerhouse, his impact on the game is just beginning. For now, the Jayhawks—and the basketball world—hold their breath.