CRAWFORD | Kasean Pryor gives Louisville a major frontcourt lift with return

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- In an era of constant roster churn and transfer portal exits, Louisville basketball has scored another significant win by keeping one of its own.

Forward Kasean Pryor announced Tuesday he'll return for a final season with the Cardinals, giving coach Pat Kelsey a versatile, experienced weapon in the frontcourt.

"Unfinished business Card Nation. Let's run it back!" Pryor posted on social media.

The 6-foot-11-inch South Florida transfer had emerged as a key starter before suffering a season-ending knee injury during the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament in December. In just over six games, he averaged 12 points and 6.1 rebounds, bringing energy and leadership to a team still searching for its identity.

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His return provides a major boost to a front line that will feature a couple of anticipated new pieces. It includes:

Aly Khalifa, a skilled 6-foot-11-inch center who sat out last season while rehabbing a knee injury.
Sananda Fru, a 6-foot-11-inch, 245-pound forward currently playing professionally in Germany.
Khani Rooths, a 6-foot-8-inch forward who showed flashes as a freshman and has announced he'll be back.

James Scott, another 6-foot-11-inch big, entered the transfer portal late Tuesday night. But With Pryor's return, Louisville not only regains a likely starter but keeps continuity at a position group where it now has both size and depth.