Kansas star Flory Bidunga could shock the Big 12, potentially landing with a rival armed with major NIL backing.
Texas Tech buzz heats up as Flory Bidunga’s portal decision looms
Kansas big man Flory Bidunga entering the transfer portal already felt like a major blow, but now there’s real smoke connecting him to a Big 12 rival. A new 247Sports crystal ball from analyst Jeff Ermann has Bidunga landing at Texas Tech, and yeah… that would hit different.
It’s one thing if he leaves for somewhere like Duke or another blue blood outside the league. You tip your cap and move on. But Texas Tech? That turns it into a storyline.
Bidunga was one of the few bright spots for KU this past season, putting up 13.3 points, 9.0 rebounds and 2.6 blocks per game while anchoring the defense. He’s arguably the top big man in the portal, and whoever lands him is getting an instant impact player.
The bigger piece here is NIL. Texas Tech has serious money behind it right now, and multiple reports suggest Bidunga could command up to $5 million next season. That’s the reality of college basketball in 2026, especially for elite rim protectors with NBA upside.
From Kansas’ perspective, this couldn’t come at a worse time. With Bidunga gone and other frontcourt pieces exploring options, the Jayhawks are staring at a complete rebuild in the paint. Bill Self and staff have work to do, and fast.
As for Bidunga, nothing is official yet. Crystal balls aren’t commitments. But if he does end up in Lubbock, this goes from “tough loss” to full-on rivalry fuel overnight.
Flory Bidunga Declares for NBA Draft, Enters Transfer Portal
Kansas forward Flory Bidunga is testing the NBA Draft waters while also entering the transfer portal, according to reports from ESPN’s Pete Thamel.
Bidunga, who will maintain his college eligibility, is coming off a strong sophomore season where he averaged 13.3 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game in an expanded role. The 6-foot-10 big man established himself as one of the top defensive anchors in the country, earning Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honors.
Join the Community
Don’t miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!
It’s completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!