Four-Star 7-foot center Gan-Erdene Solongo commits to Notre Dame

In a significant development for Notre Dame men’s basketball, 7-foot center Gan-Erdene Solongo has committed to join the Fighting Irish for the 2026 class. This announcement, made on June 9, 2025, marks a pivotal moment for head coach Micah Shrewsberry’s program, which has been actively enhancing its roster through strategic recruiting. Solongo’s commitment adds a formidable presence to Notre Dame’s frontcourt, complementing the earlier addition of four-star point guard Jonathan Sanderson.(notredame.rivals.com, on3.com, on3.com)

Solongo, a native of Mongolia, began his basketball journey at the age of 14 in his home country. At 15, he relocated to the United States, where he continued to develop his skills. Currently, he is a senior at La Lumiere School in La Porte, Indiana, after spending his junior year at Ensworth High School in Nashville, Tennessee. During his time at Ensworth, Solongo averaged 12.3 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game, showcasing his potential as a dominant force in the paint. His rapid development on the court has drawn the attention of multiple top-tier programs, with Indiana joining schools like Notre Dame, Purdue, Ohio State, Illinois, Rutgers, Xavier, Butler, and Arizona State among those that extended offers. (on3.com, notredame.rivals.com, expresspress.co.uk)

A unique aspect of Solongo’s journey is his connection to Jonathan Sanderson, who is not only a fellow Notre Dame commit but also his adopted brother. The Sanderson family has played a pivotal role in Solongo’s life, providing him with stability and support as he navigated his transition to the United States and developed his basketball skills. This familial bond adds a personal dimension to Solongo’s commitment to Notre Dame, reinforcing the sense of community and support that the program offers its players.(irishsportsdaily.com)

Solongo’s decision to commit to Notre Dame was influenced by his admiration for Coach Shrewsberry’s coaching philosophy and the program’s emphasis on player development. He expressed his appreciation for the coaching staff’s genuine care for players and their commitment to helping them grow both on and off the court. This alignment between Solongo’s values and the program’s culture suggests that he will be a valuable addition to the team, both as a player and as a member of the Notre Dame community.(on3.com)

With Solongo’s commitment, Notre Dame continues to build a strong foundation for its future success. The addition of a skilled and physically imposing center like Solongo addresses a critical need in the team’s frontcourt, providing depth and versatility. Coupled with the earlier commitment of Jonathan Sanderson, who brings dynamic playmaking abilities to the backcourt, the Fighting Irish are poised to enhance their competitiveness in the ACC and on the national stage.(irishsportsdaily.com)

As Solongo prepares to join Notre Dame, his journey from Mongolia to La Lumiere and now to the Fighting Irish serves as an inspiring testament to his dedication, resilience, and the transformative power of basketball. His story underscores the global reach of the sport and the opportunities it provides for young athletes to pursue their dreams at the highest levels.(notredame.rivals.com)

Looking ahead, Solongo’s development at Notre Dame will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. His size, skill set, and work ethic suggest that he has the potential to make a significant impact on the court. With the guidance of Coach Shrewsberry and the support of his teammates, Solongo is well-positioned to contribute to Notre Dame’s aspirations of returning to prominence in college basketball.(on3.com)

Gan-Erdene Solongo’s commitment to Notre Dame is a significant milestone for both the player and the program. It reflects the program’s strategic approach to recruiting, its emphasis on player development, and its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive team environment. As Solongo embarks on this new chapter of his basketball journey, the Notre Dame community eagerly anticipates his contributions to the team’s success in the coming seasons.