NEWS: Elite Big Man Niko Bundalo Commits to Ole Miss, Choosing Rebels Over Mississippi State and Other Powerhouses
OXFORD, MS – In a significant recruiting coup that sends a clear message across the Southeastern Conference, four-star power forward Niko Bundalo has officially committed to Ole Miss, his agents confirmed to ESPN. The highly sought-after big man, who recently re-opened his recruitment, chose the Rebels over a host of national contenders, including in-state rival Mississippi State, marking a major win for head coach Chris Beard and the Ole Miss program.
Bundalo, a 6-foot-10, 215-pound product of Prolific Prep (Napa, CA), is widely considered one of the top power forwards in the 2025 class, with some recruiting services ranking him inside the top 30 nationally. His commitment to Ole Miss comes after a whirlwind recruitment that saw him de-commit from the University of Washington last month, igniting a fresh wave of interest from collegiate basketball’s elite.
For Ole Miss, landing Bundalo is a monumental achievement. Under Chris Beard, the Rebels are building a formidable program, and Bundalo’s commitment signals the increasing national reach and attractiveness of Oxford. His skillset, characterized by an ability to score both inside and out, stretch the floor with a smooth shooting stroke, and rebound effectively, makes him a highly coveted modern big man. His versatility and offensive prowess are expected to be immediate assets for the Rebels in the fiercely competitive SEC.
The decision to choose Ole Miss over Mississippi State will undoubtedly sting in Starkville. The rivalry between the two schools runs deep, and securing a player of Bundalo’s caliber from the grasp of a direct competitor provides significant bragging rights and a strategic advantage for the Rebels. Ole Miss successfully showcased its vision for Bundalo’s development and role within the team, ultimately sealing the deal.
Bundalo’s commitment is the latest in a string of positive developments for the Ole Miss basketball program. It adds another high-level talent to their 2025 recruiting class, joining fellow four-star prospects Tylis Jordan and Patton Pinkins. Combined with a strong influx of transfer portal talent, Coach Beard is clearly assembling a roster designed to compete at the highest levels of college basketball for years to come.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Bundalo and the new-look Ole Miss Rebels. His decision to commit to Ole Miss not only elevates their recruiting profile but also intensifies the already fierce rivalry within the state of Mississippi.
