1. Falling: Sanada Fru
Sananda Fru had an underwhelming first two games for the Cardinals, but it is essential to remember that they were just preseason games. The fans are trying to stay optimistic as the season tips off tonight, but they have an eyebrow raised on the 4-star commit.
Fru scored just one point in his debut against Kansas and scored 11 against Bucknell. While he was more involved in the Cardinals' game against the Bison, fans are still concerned about his defensive abilities and physicality. The Cards need Fru to be more aggressive on both ends of the floor and to play his style of game. He looked lost at times on offense and defense, but it will take time for the forward to grow into his role.
Kelsey stated he is starting to understand the system more and more, and he is excited when everything clicks for the 6-foot-11 forward. As it is just game one tonight, Louisville fans are keeping an eye on Fru and hoping to see more physicality from their center against South Carolina State. Tonight is a game he can build some confidence and dominate the paint for the Cardinals. He has tremendous potential, as he is an elite rim protector on one end and an energetic and athletic lob threat on the other. So, while he got off to a slow start, tonight marks a game where he can turn the page.
The Cards and South Carolina State tip off this evening at 9 p.m. local time from KFC Yum! Center.