As Louisville men’s basketball rebuilds under first-year head coach Pat Kelsey, the signing of German forward Sananda Fru marks one of the most significant steps in reshaping the Cardinals’ roster. Announced on Monday, June 2, Fru’s official commitment, following his February 11 pledge, brings the 6’11”, 255-pound force with a 7’4″ wingspan to Louisville.
Fresh off an impressive season with Lowen Braunschweig in Germany’s Basketball Bundesliga (BBL), Fru’s blend of size, skill, and professional experience aligns perfectly with Kelsey’s vision of a versatile and court presence that is capable of competing in the ACC.
How Will German Forward Sananda Fru Mesh With Louisville?
Sananda Fru, a 21-year-old Berlin native, earned the BBL’s Best German Young Player award in 2024-25, recognizing him as the league’s top talent under 22. Starting 35 of 39 games for Lowen Braunschweig, he averaged 12.6 points on 64.5% shooting, 6.2 rebounds, and a league-leading 1.4 blocks per game.
Now, he’ll be bringing that same shooting prowess to the ACC. Field of 68 analyst Jeff Goodman reported on Wednesday that he will take his talents overseas to help Pat Kelsey rebuild Louisville.
German 6-11 forward Sananda Fru has officially signed with Louisville, his agent Milan Nikolic told @thefieldof68.
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) June 2, 2025
His player efficiency rating of 17.4 topped the BBL charts. In the FIBA Europe Cup, Fru elevated his game, averaging 15.5 points on 69.6% shooting across six games. His playoff performance consisting of 10.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks over five games helped Braunschweig achieve one of its best seasons in 15 years.
Kelsey’s high-tempo, positionless system demands big men who can switch defensively, finish in the paint, and stretch the floor. Fru’s 6’11”, 255-pound frame with a 7’4″ wingspan makes him an imposing physical presence with a perfect blend of athleticism, skill, and basketball IQ.
Fru’s prowess as a pick-and-roll finisher and lob threat, honed in the BBL, complements Louisville’s fast-paced offense. His developing three-point shot could make him a dual threat, especially as he gains confidence in the Cardinals’ system.
Defensively, Fru’s 1.4 blocks per game and ability to move his feet make him an ideal fit for guarding multiple positions in today’s game.
Fru is one of four 2025 signees for Louisville, joining point guard Mikel Brown Jr., Senegalese forward Mouhamed Camara, and Greek center Vangelis Zougris.
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The addition of Fru and other top talents is aimed at erasing the memory of Louisville’s eight-win 2024-25 season.
His professional experience, including his time with Germany’s FIBA U20 team in 2022 and 2023, gives him more experience than a typical freshman. Ranked among the Top 25 incoming transfers by experts, Fru’s arrival hints towards Louisville’s intent to build a versatile, athletic roster capable of climbing the ACC standings.
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