Kansas star Flory Bidunga declares for NBA draft with college eligibility caveat

Kansas forward Flory Bidunga is keeping his options open this summer.

Bidunga, who just finished his sophomore season with the Jayhawks, intends to declare for the 2026 NBA Draft, while maintaining his college eligibility, ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported Thursday.

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Additionally, Bidunga is entering the NCAA transfer portal and is open to a collegiate return.

Flory Bidunga reacts during the second half of Kansas’ second-round loss to St. John’s in the NCAA Tournament aat Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego. Getty Images

Bidunga’s decision comes after he was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year after leading the conference in blocks while averaging 13.3 points per game.

“I’m certainly fired up that Flory received what I thought should be his,” head coach Bill Self told reporters. “Because to me, he’s the most versatile and best defender in our league. And there’s some other good ones too…

“The biggest steps I would say [Flory has made are] staying disciplined and understanding to play to his length rather than play to gamble. I think he’s done a much better job with that.”

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Despite declaring for the draft, Bidunga is able to retain his NCAA eligibility because of a complex process that allows players to keep their amateur status.

In order to maintain college eligibility, players must file as an early entry applicant, requesting an Undergraduate Advisory Committee evaluation by the April deadline, along with hiring only an NCAA-certified agent or opting to go without an agent altogether.

The player must also participate in the NBA Draft Combine and inform their school on the Monday following the draft that they are returning.

Still, if a player does get selected by a team, their eligibility is immediately forfeited, which is designed to protect NBA organizations and their draft picks.

Flory Bidunga drives on Zuby Ejiofor during Kansas’ second-round loss to St. John’s in the NCAA…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/kansas-star-flory-bidunga-declares-024653936.html

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Publish date : 2026-04-03 02:46:00

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