Picture this: a towering young prospect from Bosnia and Herzegovina, fresh off international leagues, stepping into the spotlight at Indiana University – that's the thrilling tale of Andrej Acimovic, the latest addition to the Hoosiers' 2025-26 basketball squad. As the college basketball season gears up, we're diving deep into player profiles for IU's roster, building on our previews of other Big Ten teams and the full lineup. But here's where it gets exciting – Acimovic isn't just any recruit; he's a wildcard with untapped potential that could reshape the frontcourt. And this is the part most people miss: his journey from European courts to Bloomington might just be the spark IU needs for long-term success.
Let's kick things off with this freshman phenom. Announced as a Hoosier in late July, Acimovic was the last piece added to IU's 2025-26 roster. Hailing from Bijeljina, Bosnia, this 6-foot-10, 240-pound center didn't set foot on campus in Bloomington until August, missing out on the team's preseason trip to Puerto Rico. That means he's got some catching up to do, learning the ropes of college basketball from the ground up – think mastering the faster pace, tougher physicality, and strategic nuances that set the NCAA apart from international play.
As the 13th scholarship player on the team, Acimovic is primarily seen as a depth option behind seasoned upperclassmen like Reed Bailey and Sam Alexis. Don't expect him to make a big splash on the court this season; instead, he's viewed as a project for future development. But here's where it gets controversial – is IU rushing a raw talent into the mix, or is this a savvy move to build a stronger foundation? Coach Darian DeVries had high praise for him upon signing: 'Andrej is a talented big man that we are excited to get in our program and develop. He has good size and is able to score the basketball in different ways. He is strong on the glass and has good defensive instincts and timing when blocking shots.' It's a bold endorsement, but time will tell if it pans out.
Before joining IU, Acimovic honed his skills in the U19 ABA League, a competitive circuit featuring teams from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Slovenia. For beginners, think of it as a high-level youth tournament where young players showcase their abilities against regional rivals – it's like a stepping stone to professional leagues in Europe. There, he dazzled with averages of 17.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, proving he's no slouch in scoring and rebounding.
He also dipped his toes into senior-level play, where he posted even more impressive stats: 17.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 1.1 blocked shots per game, while shooting a solid 65.3% from the field and 39% from the free-throw line. To put that in perspective, those numbers highlight his efficiency as a scorer and defender, especially in a more mature league where competition is fierce. On top of that, Acimovic represented Bosnia and Herzegovina on the U16 and U18 national teams, gaining invaluable experience against international opponents.
During last week's open practice in Bloomington and the short Cream and Crimson scrimmage, Acimovic was mostly with the second team and the scout team – for those new to basketball lingo, the scout team simulates opponents to help the starters prepare, so it's a great way to build skills without the pressure of real games. He showed off a smooth shooting touch with solid mechanics and a knack for passing, though his stats in the 18+ minute scrimmage were light. In practice, he hustled hard but is still adapting to the speed and intensity of college-level play. And this is the part most people miss: his willingness to pass could make him a unique big man who stretches the floor, potentially opening up new offensive strategies for IU down the road.
In a quick chat with the media last Tuesday, Acimovic emphasized that building strength and adding weight will be crucial for his growth. 'I think it’s very important,' he shared. 'If you are not strong, I think you cannot play here. I think I need to get strong. My goal for here is to get to 250 or 255 pounds. I think that’s probably my perfect weight here and to be able to run and everything.' For context, centers like him need that extra bulk to hold their own against powerful forwards and guards, and aiming for 250-255 pounds could help him maintain agility while dominating in the paint – it's a smart, calculated approach to physical development.
Looking ahead to IU's frontcourt this season, especially at the center position, most playing time will go to Bailey, who earned All-A10 first-team honors at Davidson, and Alexis, who suited up for Florida last winter. North Florida transfer Josh Harris will add depth once he's back from injury. Acimovic offers a sturdy presence for practices and scout team duties, but he's probably a year or more away from cracking the regular rotation. But here's where it gets controversial – with waivers denied for players like Anthony Leal and Luke Goode, IU pivoted to sign Aleska Ristic and Acimovic for extra roster depth. Is this a sign of desperation, or a forward-thinking strategy? This year, Acimovic will focus on acclimating to college hoops and bulking up, leveraging his solid ball-handling skills and passing instincts to become a versatile big who can expand the floor in future seasons.
Quotable moment: 'I think it’s a great place to develop my skills. It was always like a dream to play in the United States as a kid.' – Acimovic on choosing IU.
(Photo credit: IU Athletics)
See More: Commentary, 2025-26 season preview, Andrej Acimovic
What do you think, fans? Is Acimovic the hidden gem IU needs, or are we overhyping a project player? Do you agree with the coaching staff's decision to bring him in now, or should they have waited? Share your thoughts in the comments – let's debate!
