Louisville Cardinals 2025–26 Season Preview

The Louisville Cardinals are gearing up for an exciting 2025–26 campaign, ready to usher in a new era under head coach Pat Kelsey. Representing the University of Louisville in the ACC, this storied program carries a legacy that ranks among the finest in college basketball.

A Program Built on Greatness

Since their founding in 1911, Louisville basketball has achieved greatness time and again — capturing two NCAA Championships (1980, 1986) and reaching eight Final Fours. Across 39 NCAA Tournament appearances, the Cardinals have earned 61 victories and built an all-time record of 1,882–933 (.669), reflecting a century of sustained excellence and fierce competitiveness.

Now, with Pat Kelsey at the helm, the Cardinals are poised to reestablish themselves as an ACC powerhouse. Known for his passion, discipline, and ability to develop players, Kelsey brings a track record of success — including a 288–130 career record, five NCAA Tournament appearances, and 11 conference titles. His leadership was recognized with ACC Coach of the Year and Naismith Coach of the Year semifinalist honors.

2024–25: A Season of Breakthroughs

Last season marked a resurgence for the Cardinals, who finished 27–8 overall and 18–2 in ACC play, tying for second in one of the nation’s toughest conferences. Their deep ACC Tournament run ended with a championship game appearance against No. 1 Duke — Louisville’s first-ever ACC title game berth.

What made the run more impressive was the total roster overhaul — the Cardinals had no returning scholarship players, yet still managed to exceed expectations through unity, defense, and leadership. Chucky Hepburn was named All-ACC First Team and Defensive Player of the Year, while Terrence Edwards Jr. earned Third Team All-ACC recognition.

Key Returning Players

J’Vonne Hadley – G/F, 6’7”, 210 lbs

A model of consistency and leadership, Hadley enters his fifth year at Louisville after starting all 35 games last season. He averaged 12.2 points and 7.3 rebounds, leading the team in boards and earning All-ACC Academic Team honors. Shooting 51.8% from the field and 38.1% from three, Hadley’s 32-point, 10-rebound masterpiece against Clemson underscored his two-way excellence.

Kasean Pryor – F, 6’10”, 230 lbs

The Chicago native and former South Florida standout made an immediate impact before suffering a season-ending ACL injury. Prior to that, Pryor averaged 12.0 points and 7.9 rebounds, opening his Cardinals career with a double-double (18 pts, 12 reb) against Morehead State. His return from injury could be one of the season’s biggest X-factors.

Kobe Rodgers – G, 6’3”, 185 lbs

A Cincinnati native and former Ohio Gatorade Player of the Year, Rodgers brings championship pedigree from his time at Nova Southeastern, where he helped the team to a 36–0 DII National Title run. Later starring under Kelsey at the College of Charleston, Rodgers averaged 9.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, and shot 50% from the floor, showing the efficiency and toughness Louisville covets.

Aly Khalifa – C, 7’0”, 250 lbs

The Egyptian-born big man is both skilled and cerebral. A product of the NBA Global Academy and 2018 FIBA U17 World Cup, Khalifa starred at Charlotte and BYU, averaging 11.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and setting a BYU single-season assist-to-turnover record. Despite battling knee issues, his vision and passing make him a unique weapon in Kelsey’s system.

Ryan Conwell – G, 6’4”, 215 lbs

From Indianapolis to the ACC, Conwell has proven himself at every stop — Indiana State, South Florida, and most recently Xavier, where he earned Third Team All-BIG EAST honors with 16.5 points per game and 41.3% from deep. His shooting and leadership are invaluable to this year’s team.

Cole Sherman – G, 5’11”, 190 lbs

A Louisville native living his dream, Sherman made his first career points in style with a clutch three-pointer versus Stanford last season. Having developed at Northern Kentucky, he brings depth and experience to the backcourt rotation.

Isaac McKneely – G, 6’4”, 195 lbs

A transfer from Virginia and West Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year, McKneely enters as one of Louisville’s best shooters. Last season, he led the ACC in three-point percentage (42.1%) while averaging 14.4 points per game. His ability to score under pressure will make him a fan favorite at the KFC Yum! Center.

Spencer Legg – G/F, 6’7”, 200 lbs

A versatile athlete from Washington, D.C., Legg has continued to develop since transferring from Charleston. Known for his effort and energy, he’s a valued contributor who also excelled in football and lacrosse in high school — a true multi-sport competitor.

New Faces to Watch

Sananda Fru – F/C, 6’11”, 245 lbs

A four-star German prospect and standout for Loewen Braunschweig, Fru averaged 12.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks, shooting 64.5% in the German BBL. His combination of size and mobility gives Louisville a modern interior presence.

Vangelis Zougris – F/C, 6’8”, 240 lbs

The Greek forward arrives from Peristeri Athens, bringing professional experience and FIBA pedigree. With 6.6 points per game on 65% shooting, his efficiency and experience will strengthen Louisville’s frontcourt depth.

Khani Rooths – F, 6’10”, 210 lbs

A promising sophomore, Rooths appeared in all 35 games last year, showing flashes of brilliance — including a 12-point performance against SMU. A former four-star from IMG Academy, he’s expected to play a larger role this season.

Adrian Wooley – G, 6’4”, 200 lbs

After earning Conference USA Freshman of the Year honors at Kennesaw State with 18.8 points per game, Wooley joins Louisville as a dynamic scoring guard ready to contribute immediately.

Incoming Freshmen

• Mikel Brown Jr. – G, 6’5”, 180 lbs (Orlando, FL) Five-star recruit ranked No. 7 nationally (Class of 2025). Averaged 29.6 PPG at DME Academy and starred for Team USA in the FIBA U19 World Cup. A future cornerstone of the program.

• Mouhamed Camara – F, 6’8”, 225 lbs (Dakar, Senegal) Product of the NBA Academy Africa and a member of Senegal’s national team. A defensive anchor with elite shot-blocking instincts.

• Will Hanke – G, 6’4”, 200 lbs (Louisville, KY) A homegrown talent from Saint Xavier High School, Hanke’s athleticism and versatility embody the passion of Louisville basketball.

A Bright Future Ahead

Coach Kelsey has reignited belief in “The Ville.” With a mix of proven veterans, international talent, and blue-chip recruits, the 2025–26 Louisville Cardinals are primed to rise once again on the national stage. Expect a season filled with energy, grit, and classic Cardinal pride as the KFC Yum! Center comes alive each night.