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NCAA Basketball: 10 teams that should bounce back after disappointing seasons

By Joey Loose

U of L head coach Kenny Payne instructed his players against Appalachian State during their game at the Yum Center in Louisville, Ky. on Nov. 15, 2022. The Cardinals lost 61-60.Uofl Appstate19 Sam
U of L head coach Kenny Payne instructed his players against Appalachian State during their game at the Yum Center in Louisville, Ky. on Nov. 15, 2022. The Cardinals lost 61-60.Uofl Appstate19 Sam /
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NCAA Basketball Louisville Cardinals head coach Kenny Payne Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports
NCAA Basketball Louisville Cardinals head coach Kenny Payne Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports /

Louisville

Last year was a sheer disaster at Louisville and there’s no way around that fact. Kenny Payne’s squad lost their first nine games, including an embarrassing showing in nonconference play, and finished the season an abhorrent 4-28. Clearly, it wasn’t the ideal start to Payne’s head coaching career, but things almost can’t get worse for his second year helming the Cardinals.

There are major changes across this Louisville roster, but Payne has reason for optimism in year two. They do lose a considerable amount of talent, notably El Ellis, but that talent didn’t exactly win games. Among the new additions are former USC wing Tre White and former Illinois point guard Skyy Clark. Guard play was a real issue last season, and Clark’s addition at least shores that up, with a few intriguing freshman products being added to the frontcourt as well.

We’re not saying Louisville is going to suddenly compete for the ACC title, but there should be much better play coming from the Cardinals this upcoming season. The sophomore trio of Clark, White, and returning guard Mike James should do damage, paired with youthful talent and some experience at the back end.

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