Kansas head coach Bill Self has voiced a clear belief that sophomore center Paul Mbiya is poised to earn a starting role in the upcoming season, citing the player’s steady progress and emerging confidence.
A Promising Outlook
The path to a regular spot has been shaped by recent roster moves, including the departure of Flory Bidunga to Louisville and the lingering recovery of fifth‑year center Christian Reeves from injury, openings that have allowed Mbiya to showcase his abilities in practice and exhibition games.
Self highlighted the junior’s physical transformation, noting gains in athleticism and body composition achieved during the summer, which have translated into more assertive play on both ends of the floor.
Although Mbiya managed modest numbers a year ago — 1.2 points and 1.4 rebounds per game — he stepped up when the team needed him in the NCAA tournament, delivering moments that hinted at a higher ceiling.
With the possibility of additional recruits joining the squad, competition for minutes will only intensify, but Self remains convinced that Mbiya’s development could be a decisive factor in Kansas’s push to break past recent tournament disappointments.
The excitement surrounding Mbiya reflects a broader optimism within the program, as the Jayhawks look to leverage depth and experience to advance further in March Madness.
Jordan Guskey, covering the team for the local press, has observed that the coaching staff’s confidence in Mbiya is matched by a tangible belief among teammates that the young center can make an impact when called upon.