Three Reasons Flory Bidunga is a Game-Changer for Kansas Basketball

A five-star recruit in the class of 2024, Bidunga has the potential to be a major catalyst for the Jayhawks in the 2024-25 season.

Mathey Gibson | Sep 17, 2024

Indiana All-Star Flory Bidunga (1) dunks the ball against Kentucky All-Star Max Green (5) on Saturday, June 8, 2024, during the boys seniors All-Star game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Indiana All-Stars defeated the Kentucky All-Stars. / © Grace Hollars/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

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Kansas Jayhawks

Kansas basketball fans are eagerly anticipating the debut of freshman Flory Bidunga, a five-star center recruit from the class of 2024.

Coming from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and making a name for himself at Kokomo High School in Indiana, Bidunga turned heads as one of the top high school players in the nation before arriving in Lawrence. As the Jayhawks prepare for the upcoming season, Bidunga’s addition brings a sense of excitement and hope for the program’s future.

Here are three reasons why Kansas fans should be excited about Bidunga joining the Jayhawks.

1. Elite Pedigree and Production

Indiana All-Star Flory Bidunga (1) reaches for the ball against Kentucky All-Star Dayton Williams (12) on Saturday, June 8, 2024, during the boys seniors All-Star game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Indiana All-Stars defeated the Kentucky All-Stars. / © Grace Hollars/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

Bidunga arrives at Kansas with an impressive track record.

As a senior at Kokomo High, he averaged 19.0 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 4.4 blocked shots per game, while shooting an astonishing 81.4 percent from the field.

His accolades include being named Indiana’s Gatorade Player of the Year for both his junior and senior seasons, as well as earning a spot on the Naismith Boys High School All-America Third Team.

Bidunga was ranked as high as No. 6 by ESPN and Rivals during his recruitment process and finished his high school career ranked No. 14 by 247Sports, No. 17 by ESPN, and No. 19 by Rivals.

2. Physical Tools and Athleticism

Indiana Senior All-Star Flory Bidunga (1) celebrates after making a three-point shot during the Indiana Boys Junior-Senior All-Star Game against the Indiana Junior All-Stars, Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at Kokomo Memorial Gym in Kokomo, Ind. / © Alex Martin / Journal and Courier / USA TODAY NETWORK

Standing at 6’8” with exceptional length and a well-built frame, Bidunga has the physical presence needed to thrive in the frontcourt.

He’s one of the most athletic big men in the nation, known for his explosive leaping ability and quickness in transition. Bidunga’s ability to run the floor and finish powerfully around the rim makes him a threat on both ends of the court.

His combination of strength and agility is rare, allowing him to defend, rebound, and score efficiently.

Flory. Bidunga. Get ready for some electric plays.pic.twitter.com/IYyeVwTGNT
— Bill Self’s BBQ Grill (@grilledbybill) June 4, 2024

3. High Potential and Upside

Indiana All-Star Junior Flory Bidunga (20) blocks a lay-up from Indiana All-Star Markus Burton (1) on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, during the Indiana All-Stars vs. Juniors boys game at Cathedral High School in Indianapolis. / © Grace Hollars/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

Bidunga’s game is still evolving, but his ceiling is incredibly high.

Having only been in the U.S. for a few years, his growth has been rapid, and he’s shown a strong work ethic and positive attitude.

While his offensive game is still developing, particularly in terms of shooting and ball handling, his energy, hustle, and defensive prowess make him a valuable asset for Kansas.

As he continues to refine his skills, Bidunga’s upside could be a game-changer for the Jayhawks.