Kentucky Wildcat News: Malachi Moreno vs. Flory Bidunga Debate

August 25, 2026 · Yahoo Sports

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - MARCH 13: Malachi Moreno #24 of the Kentucky Wildcats is defended by Rueben Chinyelu #9 of the Florida Gators during the first half in the quarterfinal game of the 2026 SEC Men's Basketball Tournament at Bridgestone Arena on March 13, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Carly Mackler/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Good morning, BBN!

The Kentucky Wildcats roster is once again stacked with talent as Mark Pope looks to make some noise in year three in Lexington. Helping headline the 2026-27 roster is sophomore big man, Malachi Moreno.

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Moreno returns to UK after going through the NBA Draft process and receiving feedback that he seemed likely to land toward the end of the first round of this year’s draft. With a return, however, his chances of landing in the lottery now seem pretty good with a decent season for the Cats.

That has led to an online debate on who will be the better big this season between Moreno and the No. 1 overall transfer and Louisville Cardinal, Flory Bidunga.

The Field of 68 led the conversation, with Bidunga getting the slight edge, according to Jeff Goodman.

“I’m taking Flory Bidunga over Malachi Moreno because he’s such a beast defensively. When his motor is running, there aren’t many better. I’m giving Flory the slightest edge.” – @GoodmanHoops

OFFSEASON UPDATE ⬇️https://t.co/iOWYLEgJKc
— The Field of 68 (@TheFieldOf68) August 24, 2026

Bidunga does come into this season after a few solid seasons for the Kansas Jayhawks. A dominant rebounder and shot blocker, he does bring an explosive element to his game that you don’t see much from Moreno.

However, it is hard to argue against Moreno’s overall game. Add in the experience gained from a solid year one in Lexington, and things should be fun to watch in year two.

Is there some bias in this? Absolutely. But seemingly in today’s game of basketball, what Moreno brings to the table seems to fit the bill overall.