Kansas basketball freshman Flory Bidunga impressing Bill Self with athleticism

Kansas basketball has one of the most experienced rosters in the nation, boasting graduate students such as Hunter Dickinson, Dajuan Harris, and Shakeel Moore. The Jayhawks also have fourth-year players Zeke Mayo, KJ Adams, and David Coit, all of whom will see extensive playing time.

While experience wins titles in college basketball, there are still some youngsters donning the crimson and blue this year. Incoming freshman Flory Bidunga should take on a significant role for the Jayhawks after committing to the school last August. The 5-star center has a tough path to minutes sitting behind Dickinson during his first year in Lawrence, but head coach Bill Self is very impressed with what he has seen so far in practice.

Bill Self has high hopes for Flory Bidunga as a Jayhawk

"He's gotten better everyday... There's things you just cant teach. That motor, quickness off his feet, that second jump... He's a terrific quick twitch athlete."

- Bill Self on Flory Bidunga

Self's praise for Bidunga should come as no surprise to Jayhawk fans. His athleticism is the most renowned component of his game, particularly his aptitude for blocking shots. His tremendous wingspan and vertical allowed him to average 4.4 blocks during his senior year at Kokomo (Indiana).

The Congo native was Indiana's Gatorade Player of the Year in 2024 following a tremendous season. He has only gotten better since pledging to the Jayhawks and continues to build on his offensive game, although his defensive impact is what will be felt most.

KU fans could witness Bidunga in a role similar to that of Ernest Udeh Jr. in 2022-23. Udeh often found himself in foul trouble, but it was inconsequential because he played limited minutes and served as the energy big man off the second unit. Bidunga can spell Dickinson when he is tired and play the occasional four if Coach Self wants to play a bigger lineup.

Dickinson will be the focal point of the offense and Bidunga can play 12-14 minutes per game to provide a defensive burst on the floor. As Self echoed, his explosive athleticism will make him a fun player to watch for years to come. Needless to say, Kansas basketball supporters should see a ton of blocked shots by Bidunga in 2024-25.