How Kansas Jayhawks Star Melvin Council Jr Feels about Playing Former Teammate

Kansas basketball guard Melvin Council Jr. made it clear that friendships will take a back seat when the Jayhawks face former teammate Flory Bidunga and the Louisville Cardinals.

Council was asked about seeing Bidunga again after the forward transferred from Kansas to Louisville during the offseason. His response added an intriguing storyline to the upcoming exhibition matchup between the two programs at Allen Fieldhouse.

“All I’ve got to say is, you guys saw the Kobe Bryant-Pau Gasol video for Team USA? I’m going to leave it at that,” Council said, according to Sports Illustrated’s report on his comments.

The reference was to the memorable 2008 Olympics matchup between Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol. Although the two were teammates with the Los Angeles Lakers, Bryant showed no hesitation about competing physically against Gasol when they faced each other for Olympic gold.

Council’s comparison suggests he plans to bring that same competitive mindset when he sees Bidunga on the opposite side of the court.

The upcoming matchup will be particularly interesting because the two players developed a strong connection during their time together at Kansas. Council was one of the Jayhawks’ emotional leaders last season, while Bidunga established himself as one of the Big 12’s premier defensive players.

According to Sports Illustrated’s coverage, Bidunga averaged 13.3 points and nine rebounds per game during the 2025-26 season and earned Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Council, meanwhile, averaged 12.7 points, 5.1 assists and five rebounds per game. His return to Lawrence for the 2026-27 campaign gives Kansas another experienced guard who understands the expectations surrounding the program.

The former teammates will now have an opportunity to measure themselves against each other in a different uniform. While their relationship off the court may remain strong, Council's response indicates that he intends to compete without holding back.

The exhibition against Louisville also gives Kansas an early opportunity to test itself against a talented opponent before the regular season begins. Having Bidunga on the other side will provide an additional challenge for the Jayhawks as they adjust to their new roster.

For Kansas fans, the matchup carries an emotional element beyond a typical preseason game. Bidunga was an important part of last season's team, and seeing him return to Allen Fieldhouse in a Louisville uniform will certainly draw attention.

As KU Sports reported, Council's return adds experience and leadership to Kansas' roster.

Council has already delivered his message. When the Jayhawks meet Louisville, the former teammates will be opponents, and their competitive battle could become one of the most anticipated storylines of the exhibition.

For more Kansas basketball coverage, visit Jayhawks Roundtable.