Mbiya's Rise
Paul Mbiya, a 21‑year‑old center originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo, arrives at Kansas University with a modest freshman stat line of 1.2 points and 1.4 rebounds per game, yet his 7‑foot frame and a projected 7‑foot‑8 wingspan immediately set him apart.
Because NCAA regulations classify him as a junior, Mbiya must spend an additional year developing his game, a situation that has turned his limited experience into a focused opportunity under Coach Bill Self.
In the 2025 NCAA Tournament, Mbiya demonstrated his potential, posting eight points and six rebounds while serving as a secret weapon for Self, highlighting his ability to protect the rim and crash the boards despite his raw offensive output.
Kansas is banking on his physical attributes—size, wingspan, and athleticism—rather than scoring prowess, positioning him as the starting center and a cornerstone for the team’s interior play.
While he is not expected to become an All‑Big 12 star right away, the Jayhawks believe his adaptability and the coaching he receives will allow him to refine his defensive technique, especially boxing out and rebounding, before the March Madness tournament.