Mbiya Stays at Kansas, Boosts Jayhawks' Frontcourt

0:00On April 22nd, Kansas basketball just dodged a total roster wipeout. Nearly every player from the 2025-26 squad hit the transfer portal this offseason, but Paul Mumbia stayed put. The 7-foot center from the Democratic Republic of Congo announced he's returning to Lawrence for his sophomore year, locking in as the J-Hawks. Back up Big Man with the portal now closed. Mumbia's got insane measurables, a 7-foot 8-wingspan, and one of the strongest frames on last year's team. He flipped his commitment from NC State to Kansas under Coach Bill's self, beating out schools like Oregon. As a freshman, he rode the bench behind Florey Badunga, playing in 21 of 35 games for 1.2 points and 1.4 rebounds. Per game, fans lit up over his postseason spark, though. In the NCAA tournaments 2 game run, Mumbia averaged 6 points and 4.5 rebounds, teaming with freshman Cole Rosario to build real hype. Run these young guns. This keeps Kansas from scrambling for 2 centers.

1:02Now they just need one more front court piece, with Mumbia handling backup duties. That likely cools their chase for 7-foot 5-gave dines from USC. Meanwhile, they're still in play for Charleston transfer Christian Rees after hosting him Monday. Mumbia's choice brings sweet continuity, giving self 2 promising freshman back to build on next season.