NCAA Basketball: Impact of Kansas landing 5-star center 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 Auburn Tigers forward Johni Broome John Reed-USA TODAY Sports /

Where Auburn goes after missing out on Flory Bidunga

Auburn had reportedly garnered a ton of momentum with Bidunga in the 24 hours before a commitment, even getting some late crystal balls. Unfortunately for them, the announcement went to Kansas, leaving them looking for another big in the 2024 class.

In the past few years, the Tigers have enjoyed UNC transfer Walker Kessler and current starting center, Johni Broome to anchor the defenses. After leading the team in both points and rebounds this past season, Broome nearly stayed in the NBA Draft process but opted to return for his 4th year.

Technically, Broome is in the same situation as Hunter Dickinson when it comes to a possible 5th year. However, Broome is much closer to being a draftable NBA prospect so it’s definitely viable that he’s gone after next season no matter what. Now, Auburn has to make sure to cover its basis, besides hoping that backup big man Jaylin Williams also comes back for a 5th year.

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Auburn already has a five-star guard commit in the 2024 class in Tahaad Pettiford and probably needs at least 2-3 more additions since everyone but two players are upperclassmen on the roster. Plus, top-30 guard Aden Holloway has had some early draft buzz himself. So don’t expect the Tigers to fall back on the recruiting trail for the next couple of months, though they’ll have to find a different big man to reload the frontcourt with.

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