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Kansas Star Flory Bidunga Weighs NBA, Transfer Options
Sophomore big man must decide between staying at Kansas, entering NBA Draft, or seeking transfer.
Mar. 27, 2026 at 10:08am
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Kansas Jayhawks forward Flory Bidunga, a breakout star who earned All-Big 12 First Team honors this past season, faces a critical offseason decision. The 6-foot-9 sophomore from the Congo can return to Kansas for his junior year, enter the NBA Draft, or explore a transfer to another college program. Bidunga averaged 13.3 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game in 2025-26, showcasing his elite rim protection and athleticism around the basket. However, his relatively short stature for a center and lack of an outside game may limit his NBA draft stock, leading to speculation he could seek a larger NIL payout elsewhere or return to Kansas to further develop his skills.
Why it matters
Bidunga's decision will have major implications for the Kansas basketball program. If he leaves, the Jayhawks would lose a defensive anchor and one of their most productive players. But if he stays, he could help lead Kansas to another Big 12 title and deep NCAA Tournament run. The uncertainty around head coach Bill Self's future at the school also factors into Bidunga's calculus as he weighs his options.
The details
Bidunga entered the transfer portal briefly last year before returning to Kansas, citing concerns over his playing time as a freshman behind Hunter Dickinson. This year, he took a major leap, emerging as one of the top big men in the country. Most draft projections have Bidunga going in the early-to-mid second round, though some have him sneaking into the late first round. His elite shot-blocking and rim protection are his biggest NBA selling points, but his 6-foot-9 frame and lack of an outside game could limit his upside at the next level.
- Bidunga just wrapped up his sophomore season at Kansas in 2025-26.
- He has until the NBA Draft early entry deadline in late April to declare for the 2026 NBA Draft.
The players
Flory Bidunga
A 6-foot-9 sophomore forward for the Kansas Jayhawks who emerged as an elite rim protector and rebounder, earning All-Big 12 First Team honors in 2025-26.
Bill Self
The longtime head coach of the Kansas Jayhawks, whose future with the program has been the subject of speculation, adding another layer of uncertainty to Bidunga's decision.
What’s next
Bidunga has until the late April NBA Draft early entry deadline to decide whether to turn pro or return to Kansas for his junior season. If he does enter the draft, he'll look to impress NBA scouts with his defensive prowess and athleticism around the rim.
The takeaway
Bidunga's decision will have major ramifications for the Kansas basketball program. If he leaves, the Jayhawks would lose a defensive anchor and one of their most productive players. But if he stays, he could help lead Kansas to another Big 12 title and deep NCAA Tournament run, provided head coach Bill Self remains with the program.
