Flory Bidunga has earned national attention for his defense this season, but the Kansas men's basketball sophomore says the focus remains the same as the Jayhawks prepare to host BYU in a massive Big 12 matchup Saturday at Allen Fieldhouse.
Recently named to the 2026 Naismith Men’s College Defensive Player of the Year Watch List, Bidunga is anchoring a Kansas frontcourt that leads the Big 12 in shot blocking. Still, he said the moment is more exciting than overwhelming, with ESPN College GameDay set to visit Lawrence earlier in the day.
“I’m excited. I know the place is going to be really packed, full of energy, and that’s exciting for us,” Bidunga said. “That just shows how much people here love basketball. So I’m excited to be out here.”
Kansas coach Bill Self has framed the game as a team battle rather than individual matchups, a message Bidunga understands. Of course Saturday's matchup includes a big storyline of Darryn Peterson vs. BYU freshman AJ Dybantsa.
“We play for Kansas. That’s what coach always says,” he said. “We know it’s Kansas against BYU. It’s a team effort. We all need to participate.”
Even with a short break in the schedule, Bidunga said preparation has not changed.
“It’s the same, just getting ready for the game,” he said. “We want to practice. I feel like we just need to practice as much as possible to be ready.”
Bidunga has also noticed the progress of guard Elmarko Jackson, who continues to regain form after injury.
“Oh yeah, 100 percent. Great player,” Bidunga said. “He’s growing, made some crucial plays. I feel like he still has more to show.”
He added that Jackson is close to his pre-injury self.
“100 percent,” Bidunga said. “I think he’s getting there for sure.”
With a challenging stretch ahead, Bidunga said Kansas is embracing the schedule.
“We just need to embrace it, take each game one by one,” he said. “That’s what we want. Those games help us grow as a team.”
BYU has impressed him on film, particularly in transition.
“They’re a great team, but again it’s Kansas against BYU,” he said. “We need a team effort to stop them, especially in transition.”
That includes limiting star BYU freshman Dybantsa.
“Obviously, he’s a good player,” Bidunga said. “You just need to do your best, play great defense. Be focused and take it step by step.”
Despite his accolades, Bidunga said he is still focused on improving.
“There are still a lot of areas I need to grow as a player,” he said. “I just keep stacking days and trying to get better.”
Bidunga has also seen videos of fans camping outside Allen Fieldhouse.
“That was crazy,” he said. “Seeing how many people are camping really shows how committed they are to support us. I feel like we need to put on a show.”
Kansas and BYU face off on Saturday inside Allen Fieldhouse. Tipoff is set for 3:30 p.m. CST on ESPN.