Top class of 2024 Michigan basketball recruiting target has massive NIL valuation

Following the transfer of star center Hunter Dickinson, NIL has been quite the discussion around the Wolverines’ basketball program. When asked about his decision to transfer to Kansas, he wasn’t shy about how much NIL played a part in it. Now, the Wolverines’ collectives have another opportunity to try and show what they can do, as class of 2024 five-star Michigan basketball recruiting target Flory Bidunga has significant value in that department.

Five-star Michigan basketball recruiting target Flory Bidunga has some serious NIL valuation

Just recently, Michigan basketball received excellent news, as the No. 1 center in the class of 2024, Flory Bidunga included the Wolverines in his top four schools. Bidunga is easily one of the best players in the country, ranking No. 4 nationally, per 247 Sports.

The Wolverines were named finalists alongside major basketball powers Auburn, Duke and Kansas. In addition to the release of his top schools, it also came out that he has some major NIL value.

According to On3 NIL Valuation, Bidunga has an annual value of $530k. For context, that’s good enough for top 100 among all athletes and No. 14 among high school basketball players.

5⭐️ Flory Bidunga has an On3 NIL Valuation of $530,000.https://t.co/3IR2biDbXT https://t.co/xDjnyxwdTN

— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) July 21, 2023

One of the big reasons for the five-star center’s overall value is his following on social media. When looking at his Instagram and Twitter followings, he finds himself somewhere around 24k total.

Another major factor for NIL value is talent, which Bidunga has no shortage in. The 6-foot-8, 215-pound center is among the best high school basketball players, regardless of class.

While Michigan basketball doesn’t have the best track record regarding how they utilize NIL, this provides an excellent opportunity to change that reputation. Coach Juwan Howard is one of the best at coaching the center position. Additionally, they’ve shown the ability to recruit big names of late, such as Olivier Nkamhoua, out of the transfer portal.

Earning a commitment from a player of Bidunga’s caliber would be a major win for the program. If the Wolverines can win him over, it will likely be due to a combination of NIL and their ability to produce NBA talent.

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