Former Kansas Jayhawks Player Flory Bidunga Makes His Return to Allen Fieldhouse

The Kansas Jayhawks will get an early test against another nationally ranked opponent Wednesday night when they welcome the Louisville Cardinals to Allen Fieldhouse. However, the biggest storyline will be the return of former Kansas forward Flory Bidunga, who will face his former team in a Louisville uniform.

Kansas enters its second exhibition game after defeating Pittsburg State 80-62 on Oct. 16. The Jayhawks will now face No. 11 Louisville, with tipoff scheduled for 6 p.m. CT on ESPNU. Kansas is ranked No. 17 in the preseason Associated Press poll, making this a valuable opportunity for both programs to evaluate their rosters before the regular season begins. (Kansas Athletics)

Bidunga’s return will draw plenty of attention from Kansas fans. The former Jayhawk spent the previous two seasons in Lawrence and established himself as one of the Big 12’s top defensive players. He earned Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honors last season while averaging 13.3 points, nine rebounds and 2.6 blocks per game.

After transferring to Louisville during the offseason, Bidunga will have an opportunity to showcase his development against the program where he made his name. His familiarity with Kansas could give the Cardinals valuable insight into the Jayhawks’ personnel and tendencies.

The matchup also brings an interesting reunion for Kansas guard Melvin Council Jr. and Bidunga, who were teammates last season. Council previously compared the upcoming matchup to Kobe Bryant facing Pau Gasol during the 2008 Olympics, suggesting that competition would take priority over their friendship. Read more about Bidunga’s return to Lawrence.

For Kansas, Wednesday’s game is another chance for head coach Bill Self to assess a roster featuring returning contributors, experienced transfers and highly regarded freshmen. After its first exhibition, Kansas will look to improve its chemistry and execution against a more challenging opponent.

Louisville also presents a significant test. The Cardinals finished 24-11 last season and reached the second round of the NCAA Tournament. With both teams ranked in the preseason top 20, the contest should provide an early indication of how they measure up against high-level competition.

Kansas has won 58 consecutive exhibition games at Allen Fieldhouse, a streak dating to 1994. Maintaining that run would be another positive step as the Jayhawks prepare for the regular season.

Ultimately, Bidunga’s homecoming adds an emotional layer to an important preseason matchup. Kansas fans will welcome a familiar face back to Lawrence, but once the ball goes up, both teams will be focused on competing and improving.

Follow more Kansas basketball coverage at Jayhawks Roundtable.