NCAA Basketball: Analyzing key contenders for 5-star C Flory Bidunga

Kokomo Wildkats center Flory Bidunga (40) rushes up the court on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Ben Davis Giants lead at the half against the Kokomo Wildkats, 28-17, during the IHSAA Class 4A state finals championship.High School Basketball Ini Hs Basketball Class 3a State Final Northwood Panthers At Guerin Catholic Golden Eagles /

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NCAA Basketball Oregon Ducks center Kel’el Ware Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports /

Florida Gators

The Gators have landed several players in the past week, including top-25 center commit, John Bol. He’s the third newcomer set to join the program, including freshman Marshall transfer, Micah Handlogten. Plus, freshman Alex Condon is another piece joining the roster.

On paper, Bidunga is more talented than any of them, so the logjam wouldn’t affect him if he wanted to truly go there. But after landing Bol this past weekend, it’s very hard to see Florida taking time in trying to land this prospect instead of focusing on other areas of need. So it’s safe to say that they won’t be an option going forward.

Indiana Hoosiers

The Hoosiers lost both of its key bigs to the pro ranks in Race Thompson and Trayce Jackson-Davis. Payton Sparks comes from Ball State and is a projected backup big man, while Kel’el Ware comes from Oregon and is a former five-star prospect from the 2022 class. He still has NBA potential and could be a “one-and-done” if things go well this season.

But if it doesn’t, Bidunga would be a nice upgrade for Indiana. And after landing former Duke commit and five-star wing Mackenzie Mgbako, this is a program with nice momentum on the recruiting trail. Indiana is a fairly close option with high prestige compared to Cincinnati and if the Ware situation works itself out, could allow this recruit to start Day 1.

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