College Basketball

Niko Bundalo Potential Landing Spots: UNC and Kansas State Battling for Washington Decommit

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Niko Bundalo is back on the market—and he’s now the top unsigned player in the 2025 class. The 6’10” McDonald’s All-American recently decommitted from Washington and immediately became one of the most sought-after prospects in the country. A left-handed stretch four with vision, touch, and ball-handling skill, Bundalo has drawn interest from several high-major programs.

North Carolina Recruiting: Tar Heels Are the Favorites

UNC is believed to be the frontrunner. They were a finalist before Bundalo originally committed to Washington and have remained involved behind the scenes. Hubert Davis already has 6’9” forward Caleb Wilson in the 2025 class, but there’s room for both. Wilson is more interior-oriented, while Bundalo thrives in face-up and perimeter actions.

The fit is natural—UNC’s system allows mobile forwards to initiate offense, play in space, and shoot from range. Bundalo’s passing and versatility would give the Tar Heels a different dynamic up front, and early playing time is likely available.

Kansas State Recruiting: Wildcats a Legit Contender

Kansas State might not be the obvious pick, but they’re a real option. Jerome Tang has built his program around flexibility and skill, and Bundalo fits that mold. K-State lets its forwards handle the ball, shoot, and create mismatches—Bundalo could thrive in that kind of system.

They also offer a clearer path to early minutes. The 2025 frontcourt isn’t crowded, and Tang has shown he’ll hand over responsibility to impact newcomers. Players like Keyontae Johnson and Arthur Kaluma saw expanded roles under Tang, and Bundalo could follow a similar path.

The Wildcats can also pitch a balance between usage and development. There’s less pressure than a blue blood, more opportunity to be featured, and a recent history of player growth that would appeal to a high-upside prospect looking for NBA development.

Other Programs to Watch for Niko Bundalo

Ohio State remains in the picture as his home-state school. They were in his original top group and still have a need in the frontcourt. Michigan State, UConn, and St. John’s have all been mentioned, though their paths to playing time are a bit more crowded.

Top Uncommitted Basketball Recruit in 2025: What’s Next?

Bundalo averaged 14.5 points and nearly 6 rebounds per game on the Adidas 3SSB circuit, flashing the inside-out game that made him a consensus top-30 recruit. His size, feel, and versatility make him one of the most intriguing unsigned players left.

With UNC in the lead and Kansas State making a strong case, his recruitment is wide open again—but likely won’t stay that way for long.