From the streets of Kinshasa to the national stage of college basketball, Flory Bidunga’s journey has captured attention. At 6’9″ with a remarkable wingspan, he has built a reputation for highlight-reel dunks and dominant shot-blocking. But behind his rise is a deeper story—his family.
Flory Bidunga’s Roots and Family Influence
Born on May 20, 2005, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Bidunga grew up in a culture deeply connected to sports and resilience. While little public information is available about his biological parents, family has remained central to his life.
In the United States, he lives with his host parents, Makenna and Dillon Craft, who have supported him through high school. Bidunga has spoken about his mother’s influence, calling her his biggest supporter.
“My family has been my biggest influence, especially my mother. She’s the one who really pushed me to do it,” Bidunga said in an interview.
Leaving home at 15 to chase a dream wasn’t easy, but Bidunga embraced the challenge. He enrolled at Kokomo High School in Indiana, adjusting to a new basketball culture and way of life.
During that transition, he found a home with the Crafts, who provided him with the stability he needed.
“It’s what he loves,” Makenna Craft said of hosting the young athlete.
Bidunga played for the Kansas Jayhawks last season, averaging 5.9 points and 5,.4 rebounds, but has now entered the transfer portal.
A Natural Athlete: Is Basketball in His Blood?
Little is known about whether Bidunga’s biological family has a sports background, but his natural athleticism suggests strong genes. In addition to basketball, he played soccer growing up.
When asked about returning to soccer, Bidunga said, “I’m just trying to have fun. It’s my senior year, and I won’t have [soccer] anymore, so I just want to have fun.”
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While excelling in sports, Bidunga also took on the academic challenge of Kokomo’s International Baccalaureate program, balancing coursework with his athletic commitments.
Bidunga’s rise is more than a story of talent—it’s one of resilience, adaptability, and the power of family. His biological family instilled discipline and drive, while his host family in Indiana provided the support he needed to thrive.
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