Louisville basketball will be active in the transfer portal. Exploring options for the Cards.
The 2024 transfer portal is officially open, and thanks to Pat Kelsey and the new found energy, the Louisville basketball program has already seen themselves attached to a plethora of players.
All 12 of last year’s scholarship players have hit the portal, with a majority; if not all; expected to find homes elsewhere. Kelsey has brought with him three former Cougars in sharpshooter Reyne Smith, veteran guard Kobe Rodgers, and a high-upside freshman, James Scott.
After a commitment from former Sun Belt Player of the Year, Terrence Edwards, Jvonne Hadley, Aly Khalifa, Aboubacar Traore, Koren Johnson, Chucky Hepburn, Kasean Pryor, and Khani Rooths that leaves the new staff with two scholarship spots to fill, via the transfer portal and late signees in the class of 2024, so let’s take a look at who the Cards have landed and reached out to.
On the radar
Noah Waterman – F, BYU
The Cards missed out on a stretch four in Ben Humrichous a few weeks ago, but now it looks like Coach Kelsey has the chance to land one that might be even better.
The 6-11 forward just entered into the transfer portal on Monday, looking for a sixth year in college basketball. Waterman was an unranked recruit in the class of 2019 that began his career at Niagara. After redshirting his freshman season, Waterman transferred to Detroit Mercy. In his first season with the Titans, Waterman shot a RIDICULOUS 53% from three on 4.8 attempts per game. He spent two years at Detroit before transferring to BYU to be coached by Mark Pope.
Last season, Waterman started every game for the Cougars and put up 9.5 points and 5.4 rebounds on 37% three point shooting (4.7 3PA p/g). He seems to be a really volatile scorer. Waterman scored 15+ in 10 games, but he also scored 3 or less points in 9 games.
I thought the portal closed already? But I guess Waterman got his paperwork submitted before May 1 and just kept it on the down low. Whatever the case is, Waterman is a wonderful sight for sore eyes as Louisville fans are desperately looking for bigs to add to this roster. After watching a few of his games, here is my breakdown:
- Really good three point shooter. This is where the majority of his damage is done (67% of his FGA come from three). Loves the corner and deep wing three. Spaces out the floor really well.
- Not super athletic, but he does have pretty good foot speed and quickness for his size. Watching him play, you’d think he’s a 6-6 or 6-7 small forward, not a 6-11 power forward.
- I can see him playing the four really easily, but I’m not sure he can play the five. He doesn’t block shots at high rate (0.6 BPG). He doesn’t have a large frame (210 lb.). He doesn’t rebound super well (5.4 RPG), and he doesn’t play particularly physical.
- Doesn’t get to the rim a ton. He does cut off of the basketball well, especially when a defender is overplaying his shooting, but he doesn’t often catch it on the perimeter and blow by a guy.
- I’d rate him an average to slightly above average defender. He does well guarding threes and fours, but he can get outmuscled by bigger players. His foot speed is decent, and you don’t often see guards picking on him when he gets switched onto them. Not a high level rim protector, but he can occasionally block a shot.
- Not much of a playmaker on offense, which is something Coach Kelsey likes in his bigs. He doesn’t often look to get to the rim. He’s typically looking to shoot a three or swing the ball.
Logically, you would think it would be likely for Waterman to go from Provo to Lexington and follow his former coach, but rumor has it he has his eyes on the ‘Ville.
Mike Rutherford said on his radio show that Waterman is likely to visit Louisville first. He also said that his interest in Louisville is largely due to the fact that he has a great relationship with Aly Khalifa.
Landing Waterman would bring in a really solid piece that fits nicely into Coach Kelsey’s system that puts a heavy emphasis on three point shooting. I don’t see him starting at the five, but I could see him being the first front court player off of the bench. Add him, Rooths, and a defensive big man like Onyenso, and I’d be ready to have tournament expectations in year one.
Frank Anselem-Ibe – C, Georgia
Well… we’ve been asking for big men, and it looks like we might get one that probably none of us have ever heard of.
Frank Anselem-Ibe began his career with Syracuse back in 2020 and was actually ranked as a 4-star big man from Lagos, Nigeria. His freshman season saw him only appear in four games, but his second season with the Orange saw his minutes and production increase dramatically as an every night reserve playing 14+ MPG.
After two seasons in the ACC, Anselem transferred to Georgia but never really saw much more than backup center minutes. Last season, he averaged just 2.6 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks. Due to an injury, he did see his minutes nearly double Georgias NIT run. In their final three games of the season, he started each game and averaged 6 points, 7 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game in 24.3 minutes per game.
Finding tape on this guy is pretty difficult, but from what I saw he seems to be a long, athletic big man that can run the floor well and be a plus rebounder on the offensive end. He seems to play hard and always fight for the ball. He doesn’t appear to have a ton of skill to his game, but he makes up for it with hustle.
If he comes to Louisville, I couldn’t imagine it’d be as anything more than a depth piece in the front court, possibly averaging around eight minutes a game.
It was announced on Friday that he is deciding between Georgia Tech, Louisville, NC State and Wisconsin. As far as I am aware, he hasn’t taken a visit to Louisville, so I’m not sure how likely it is he comes here. He is expected to make his decision on May 14.
Coleman Hawkins – F, Illinois
The All BIG Ten Third Team forward originally entered his name into the NBA draft but then surprised a lot of people when he also entered his name into the transfer portal on the final day. It’s now come out Louisville is one of the top teams in consideration, if he does return to college.
Coleman Hawkins has spent four years with Illinois, going from a recruit ranked outside of the top 150 players in the class of 2020 to one of the most versatile big men in the country. Last season, Hawkins put up 12.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.1 blocks for one of the best teams in the country.
But what was most impressive about Hawkins fourth year in college was his improved jump shot. In his first three years, Hawkins was a 27% three point shooter and a 65% free throw shooter. In his last season, Hawkins raised those averages immensely. As a senior, Hawkins shot 37% from three and 79% from the free throw line.
With his added shooting ability, Hawkins is truly a do-it-all type player. He can dribble, shoot, facilitate, and defend. He also brings a ton of energy onto the court and would be a great addition to a team that will be looking to change its identity from the last couple of years.
Hawkins is a top-15 transfer portal player, so it’s no surprise that almost every school is after him, but Matt Norlander came out on Tuesday and announced Louisville as one of four schools to look out for if he withdraws from the NBA Draft process.
The biggest question now is will Hawkins remain in the NBA Draft or return to college for one more year? Hawkins was one of two Illinois players invited to the NBA Draft combine taking place from May 12-19. Currently, mock drafts have Hawkins going around pick 50. That’s certainly not an ideal spot to land, as most late second rounders see little to no playing time in the NBA. Hawkins has until May 29 to withdraw from the NBA Draft and return to college.
Unless Hawkins turns a lot of heads at the Combine, I’d expect him to return to college for one final season, where he’ll make millions of dollars. And why not? Being the 52nd pick in the NBA Draft rarely comes with any contract guarantees. Coleman could return to college and command at least $1 million, but probably much more.
Louisville landing Hawkins will likely come down to timing and the state of the roster. If Louisville lands a guy like Great Osobor, the Cards will likely have spent up most of their NIL cache and won’t have as many front court minutes available, but if the Cards miss on all the current bigs they’re targeting, then a big pay day could come his way from the ‘Ville.
Achor Achor – F, Samford
A name so nice you have to say it twice? Achor squared might just be the perfect big for Louisville to land.
Achor Achor started his college career in 2020 playing in the JUCO ranks for Chipola College. After two years with the Guardians Indians, Achor transferred to Samford. In year one with the Bulldogs, Achor primarily came off the bench, but year two saw him ascend into one of the best players in the Southern Conference.
During his junior season, Achor started all 33 games and put up 16.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.8 blocks, and 1.5 assists; while shooting just less than 60% from the field and 43.5% from three (1.9 3PA p/g). Those stats were good enough to land him on the All-Southern Conference First Team.
Here’s my breakdown of Achor’s game:
- Not a beautiful looking shot, but a shot that goes in. Primarily shoots at the rim or from behind the three point line.
- High-level rim protector. 20 games with 2+ blocks last season.
- Not much of a back to the basket game. Spent most of his time on offense catching the ball at the perimeter and setting screens.
- Decent passer. Won’t drive and play make much, but he’s a solid passer from the high post.
- Foot speed is not incredible. Has decent burst (for his size) when trying to drive past defenders, but you don’t prefer him to have to switch onto a guard on defense.
- Still a somewhat raw game. At times, he’s overly physical on defense and overly aggressive on the boards when he’s in bad position (5.11 fouls per 40 minutes). Just doesn’t seem to have a feel to his game like someone who’s been playing for 10+ years.
- A really solid offensive weapon. He’s a threat to roll or pop off the pick, and his range forces his man to play tighter to him, creating more space for the rest of the offense.
- Played stretch five for Samford last season and probably would be best served in the same role at Louisville. Can’t see his lack of foot speed boding well at the power forward spot.
Trilly Donovan reported that Louisville is in the mix for Achor, but his first visit, since entering the portal, is going to Auburn.
I think Louisville is still holding out hope for Great Osobor, but if Osobor goes elsewhere and Achor makes it out of his visit to Auburn, then he could end up in the ‘Ville. Achor’s offensive versatility and ability to protect the rim would be a big boost to next year’s roster. Here’s to hoping we land a visit soon.
as a Cardinal next year. Hopefully, we can lock in a visit soon.
Ugonna Onyenso – C, Kentucky
Of all the players on this list, Ugonna Onyenso might be the one player Cards fans know the most, thanks to his two years in Lexington.
Onyenso is an athletic 7-footer with a long wingspan that makes him one of the best shot blockers in college basketball. Last season, the Nigerian born big man averaged 2.8 blocks, in just 18 minutes per game. Onyenso also led the SEC in block rate and was top 15 in both offensive and defensive rebounding.
Unfortunately, Onyenso’s impact on the game is pretty much only on the defensive side of the ball. His athleticism allows him to be a threat for dunks, lobs, and putbacks, but his lack of ball handling and lack of post moves makes almost unusable outside of five feet.
In early April, Onyenso announced he was entering the NBA draft, but a week after declaring for the draft Onyenso announced he would be entering the transfer portal. Louisville was one of the first five schools to reach out.
Last season, Pat Kelsey had a skilled center in his starting lineup, with a more athletic rim protector as the backup, James Scott. Maybe he envisions a similar rotation at Louisville with Onyenso being his defensive-minded big?
It looked like Onyenso was destined for Alabama, but a commitment from one of the top available big men in the country has that looking unlikely.
Onyenso comes with his limitations, but he is truly dominate on the defensive interior. He also has incredible athleticism and length for his size, so his potential is certainly far from being met. Give him two more years in college, and he has the potential to be one of the most impactful bigs, similar to a Donovan Clingan or Ryan Kalkbrenner type.
Wesley Yates III – CG, Washington
We’ve already landed one former Washington Husky guard… why not another?
Wesley Yates III is a former top-40 ranked player in the class of 2023 joined Washington last season but had to sit out the whole season, due to foot injury.
It’s hard to get a good feel for his game, since most of the film is just highlights from his high school career, but it seems like he’s a skilled guard with tons of length (6-4) and an ability to score at all three levels.
Based on the highlights, it seems like Yates has a good shot from three and mid-range, decent handles, and pretty high level athleticism.
The former 4-star guard also took a visit to campus on April 23.
Adding a high potential player like Yates would be a great pickup. I wouldn’t expect him to be an immediate starter, but he could easily be a great backup guard that can play the two or three behind Koren Johnson, Terrence Edwards, and J’Vonne Hadley.
After visiting Louisville, many expected a commitment shortly after, but a few days later Yates was taking a visit to Stillwater.
It’s always best to get a guy to commit during or right after his visit, so it isn’t great to see him visiting other schools.
Great Osobor – F, Utah State
It truly is impressive how many high caliber players Coach Kelsey is getting in on. Great Osobor is another top talent to add to the list.
Osobor is a consensus top-5 rated player available in the transfer portal, due to a phenomenal junior season at Utah State that saw him average 17.7 points, 9.0 rebounds, 2.8 assists.
Unlike many of the other players Kelsey is reaching out to, Osobor is not a great shooter. Last season, he shot 21.4% from three on just 0.4 3PA p/g. He also shot just 64% from the free throw line, but outside of shooting Osobor has it all.
Osobor is a physical beast that dominates on the inside, and he has a nice feel for the game. He will also be a plus on the defensive side, averaging 1.4 blocks and 1.3 steals per game.
From the moment Osobor hit the portal, I’ve seen Kentucky fans clamoring for this kid, and I assumed they’d probably land him, but his list of upcoming visits came out, and Louisville was included.
Osobor was high school teammates with Kentucky commit Armari Williams, and they also have the same agent. I expected Osobor to land with the Wildcats, but Mark Pope adding OKlahoma State transfer big Brandon Garrison makes that seem unlikely.
Kentucky grabbing Garrison certainly bodes well for Louisville’s chances, but we’ll still have to compete with newly anointed head coach of Washington, Danny Sprinkle. Sprinkle coached Osobor at Montana State and at Utah State. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him follow the coach he’s had for his entire collegiate career.
Osobor visited Louisville just before the Derby, with Coach Kelsey visiting with him and his parents. The visit is said to have gone well, but the Cardinals did not receive a commitment.
Prior to Osobor beginning his four visits, it was rumored that he would take all four visits before making a decision, so maybe it isn’t a guarantee he will go elsewhere, but it would have been nice to get a commitment while he was in town. Osobor will be one of the biggest additions to whatever team he chooses to play for. He’s so physically dominate on the inside, and he’s a really solid passer for the 4/5 position.
Trent Perry – G, Class of 2024
As great as it is to get old and stay old in the transfer portal, it will also be important for Coach Kelsey to grab some building block players that could be with the Cards for the next 2-4 years.
Trent Perry just recently de-comitted from USC, after they lost Andy Enfield to SMU. It wouldn’t shock me if the California kid stayed with the Trojans or followed Enfield to SMU, but the Cards have officially reached out to the talented guard.
Players of his caliber don’t often open up their recruitment this late into the game, so it’s no surprise so many big schools have reached out.
Perry led Harvard West Lake to a 33-3 record and a state championship while averaging 18.7 points, 6.2 rebounds, 6.0 assists and 1.8 steals per game, while shooting 47.2 percent from three last season.
Thanks to those stats, Perry’s ranking has been rising since 2023. Perry also just recently played in the McDonald’s All-American game where he scored five points in 12 minutes of play. Here are the best highlights I could find from him. They’re from his Junior year:
It’s hard to get a true sense of his game by just watching the highlights, but it seems like he’s a really skilled guard with a great jump shot. He can shoot off the catch from three and loves to use his size to shoot over defenders on pull-ups from mid-range. I haven’t seen him take it to the rim a ton, but he does have a nice floater from around 5-10 feet out that he loves to utilize. Him averaging 6+ rebounds and 6+ assists also speaks to him likely having a well-rounded game.
Perry has taken a visit to Virginia, and they were considered to be the leader for the McDonald’s All American. Now that prediction seems to have changed?
It seems like Perry is deciding between UCLA and Virginia, and I can’t blame him. It seems likely he’d be at best the third of fourth guard on the team. I am sure a player of his status would prefer to go to a place with more guaranteed playing time.
Shakeel Moore – G, Mississippi State
With the addition of Kanye Cleary and the return of star guard Josh Hubbard, it’s no surprise Shakeel Moore has decided to enter the transfer portal.
Moore spent his first season at N.C. State, but has been at Mississippi State for the last three years, where he’s started more than 60 games for the Bulldogs. In his three seasons, he was a solid contributor averaging just less than 9 points per game, 2.7 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.4 steals per game.
The undersized guard saw his raw numbers dip last year, due in large part to the Josh Hubbard takeover, but he saw his efficiency improve. Moore shot 47% from the field, and shot a career best 36.3% from three on 2.4 3PA P/G.
Moore is a bit undersized, just 6-1, but he’s a decent three point shooter, solid ball handler, and has quick hands on the defensive end. He’s also got some incredible bounce.
Moore is rated just a couple spots below Reyne Smith at 171st in the Transfer Portal, according to 24/7 Sports, but he’d be a solid addition to a team that still has 10 spots to fill on the roster. You’ll happily take a guy like this that can handle the ball, play solid defense, and consistently knock down open the threes.
Not much has come out on Moore’s recruitment. No visit to Louisville has been scheduled, but I also haven’t seen him visit anywhere else. Moore most likely isn’t a priority add for Power 5 programs, so it may be a while until we see where he lands.
Committed
Khani Rooths – F, Class of 2024
Back in March, Dusty May spurned the Cards. Fast forward to May and the Cards may be getting back at him?
Khani Rooths is a consensus Top-40 recruit in the class of 2024 that committed to the Wolverines in November of 2023, but the athletic wing decommitted from Michigan just a few days after they parted ways with Juwan Howard.
Michigan has continued to recruit Rooths, and Georgia has remained heavily interested, as well, but it came out recently Rooths is expected to visit campus this weekend (via Ty Spalding).
Here is a breakdown of Rooth’s game (from Jeff Borzello):
Rooths shows fluid movement when attacking the basket and explosiveness near the rim. He brings a lot of versatility, contributing as a finisher, defender and scorer. He plays both inside and out with effectiveness. Defensively, Rooths will guard the ball with lateral ability and length, contest shots and rebound with the ability to take the ball and push it on the break. He is an alert defender and gets his share of deflections, steals and blocks. When Rooths is aggressive attacking the basket, he can score or get to the free throw line at a high rate, and while his perimeter skills are progressing, he is most comfortable and impactful inside the arc.
Based on his highlights, Rooths is an incredibly long (6-8 with a 7-1 wingspan) wing that thrives on the inside and on defense, thanks to his length and athletic ability. It seems like the outside shot and handle could use some work, but he looks to have the building blocks of what could be a future first round draft pick.
Rooths to Louisville seems to have came out of nowhere, so I’m not sure what the odds are of us landing him, especially with Michigan and Georgia being in on him for years now, but a visit to campus is a big deal. Maybe we can lock him up over the weekend?
Kasean Pryor – F, University of South Florida
Another big that can space the floor? Sign me up!
Kasean Pryor spent his first two seasons in college basketball playing sparingly for Boise State. Appearing in just 13 games during his first two seasons. After struggling to find playing time at the D-1 level, Pryor transferred down to Northwest Florida State College.
After one season in JUCO, Pryor joined Amir Abdur-Rahim at South Florida where he helped lead the Bulls to their best record in program history. In his lone season with the Bulls, Pryor started 21 games and put up an impressive stat line: 13.0 points, 7.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.7 blocks, and 35.2% shooting from three (3.3 3pa p/g). After his blowup junior season, Pryor hit the portal, and Louisville was one of more than 20 Power Five schools to reach out.
There’s a lot to like in Pryor’s game, so it’s no surprise so many schools have reached out. He’s extremely long and athletic, has an ability to shoot from three, can affect shots at the rim, and he has above average handles for the position. His ability to be in passing lanes, run the floor, pick and pop, and pick and roll make him an ideal fit for Coach Kelsey’s system. Here’s my more in-depth breakdown:
- Essentially a guard in a 6-10 frame. Above average three point shooter and ball handler for his position. Also has some play making ability to his game, as well.
- Plays very wild and sometimes out of control. His moves with the ball also look robotic at times at well. He’s effective, but it is certainly a different style of play.
- Really high energy player. Very vocal on the court and can get under other players’ skin. Hustle will almost never be an issue.
- Has some issues on defense, especially with focus and off-ball positioning. He’s aggressive as heck in passing lanes (1.2 SPG). Have noticed him getting beat quite a few times, just because he’s not in the right spot. He has an ability to block shots (0.7 BPG), but I certainly wouldn’t define him as a rim protector.
- As a shooter, he’s primarily putting up spot-up jumpshots, but he does occasionally shoot off the dribble. Also, does not have the best shot selection at times.
- I haven’t seen him drive and play make a ton, but he is a great outlet passer, and his height allows him to see and throw over defenses.
- Has a really thin frame for the five spot. Causes him to struggle guarding true fives in the post and also causes him to struggle when trying to box out.
- He played almost exclusively at the 5 last year for South Florida, but it seems like he may be best suited as a stretch four, but he certainly has the versatility to play both spots.
Pryor does still have a raw feeling to his game, though. He bites on a lot of shot fakes, almost moves robotically at times, and his decision making isn’t always the best (1.7 TO’s p/g), but the good certainly outweighs the bad.
I kept Pryor off of this list, due to the fact that so many schools had been in contact, but Trilly Donovan recently reported the four schools pursuing Pryor the heaviest are Louisville, Arkansas, St. John’s, and Villanova.
From what I’ve read, it sems like Arkansas is in the driver’s seat, but we all know that can change at any moment. Pryor would be a great stretch four or small ball five in Coach Kelsey’s offense. His ability to shoot from three, run in transition, and play make would see him thrive as a Cardinal next year. Hopefully, we can lock in a
Kobe Rodgers – G, College of Charleston
Make that three former Cougars following Pat Kelsey to Louisville! Unfortunately, this is another player expected to redshirt next season.
Kobe Rodgers spent his first two years playing for Division-II Nova Southeastern University, where he helped lead the Sharks to a perfect 36-0 record and their first ever national championship. After averaging a solid stat line for the Sharks for two years, Rodgers transferred to play under Pat Kelsey in 2023.
In his lone season in Charleston, Rodgers started 18 games, while playing just less than 22 minutes a night. Rodgers averaged 9.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists. He also shot 50% from the field and 45% from three (1.3 3PA p/g).
After watching quite a few College of Charleston games, it’s clear to see that Rodgers should be able to handle the step up in competition in the ACC. Rodgers put up 14 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals in Charleston’s lone NCAA Tournament game against Alabama.
Rodgers is a solid guard that flourishes defensively in Pat Kelsey’s scheme where he loves for his guards to play up in the passing lanes. On offense, Rodgers is a solid shooter that doesn’t force shots. His athleticism is just ok, but his ball handling and passing ability should allow him to be a serviceable depth piece in the backcourt.
Unfortunately, Rodgers suffered a leg injury during their NCAA Tournament game, so he is expected to redshirt during the 2024-2025 season. It would have been great to have him immediately, but it won’t be the worst thing to have a guard ready to go for the 2025 season, especially with how old most of our transfers have been.
Aboubacar Traore – F, Long Beach State
Nearly all of the players Coach Kelsey has reached out to can shoot the lights out from three. Aboubacar Traore is the exception to this. Thankfully, he can do everything else on the court.
Traore spent his first three seasons at Long Beach State slowly growing into the well-rounded player he is today. Last season, the 6-5 forward put up 12.0 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 4.5 assists while shooting 9% from three (0.6 3PA p/g). He also averaged 1.5 steals and 1.4 blocks per game, as well.
Versatile is the best way to describe Traore’s game. He rebounds extremely well for his size; which will allow him to play 3-4 next season. He’s also a great playmaker, incredible defender; thanks to his length, and he’s extremely dangerous in transition.
Traore reminds me of a less skilled Pascal Siakam. The only real knock on Traore’s game is that he can’t shoot a lick. Traore shot 84% of his shots at the rim, so you will RARELY ever see him take anything that isn’t a layup or dunk.
Traore shot 2/23 from three last season and just 66% from the free throw line. Those are not numbers you usually associate with a desirable wing player, but the rest of Traore’s game more than makes up for his lack of shooting ability.
Chucky Hepburn – PG, Wisconsin
May I interest you in a Power-5 transfer that has started more than 100 games, is a career 37% three point shooter, and is considered one of the best perimeter defenders in college basketball?
Chucky Hepburn spent his first three seasons at Wisconsin, where he started every single game; since his arrival. Last season, Hepburn put up 9.2 points, 3.9 assists, and 3.3 rebounds as the point guard for the Badgers. The arrival of AJ Storr cut Hepburn’ scoring down a bit (12.2 PPG in his sophomore year), but it also allowed him to up his assist numbers.
Here’s my breakdown of his game:
- Elite perimeter defender. Great foot speed allows him to stay in front of anyone. Will always guard the other team’s best guard. Only defensive issue I’ve seen is that he gets bumped off by screens pretty easily, and sometimes the screen will take him out completely.
- Good three point shooter (career 37% from three) with good range on his shot (able to shoot from 25+ feet out).
- Played primarily on the ball as the point guard, but his shooting ability allows him to play well off the ball, as well.
- Not really a factor on the glass. Will get 2-3 easy/long rebounds a game, but he’s not typically looking/fighting to get offensive or defensive rebounds.
- Manages the pick and roll well. His speed allows him to get around a defender and then he does a good job of keeping his defender on his hip to allow for a mid-range shot or a pass.
- Not the best at attacking the rim. He’s only 6-2 and doesn’t posses elite jumping ability. He definitely prefers to shoot a floater or a mid-range pull-up off of the pick and roll.
- Good passer. Almost always willing to swing to an open shooter or find the open man when he’s driving.
Hepburn brings Louisville everything they need right now. He’s an experienced ball handler, sporting a better than a 3-to-1 assist to turnover ratio. He shoots the three well (with plus range), and he’s a great perimeter defender.
A backcourt combination of Hepburn and Koren Johnson will be FILTHY. It will be one of the top backcourts in the conference, and it will have ACC guards trembling in fear.
Koren Johnson – G, Washington
Louisville has reached out to a ton of guards in the transfer portal, but it looks like this might be the one most likely to commit first.
Koren Johnson is a 6-2 guard with long arms that make him a menace on the defensive end. Johnson averaged 11.1 points, 2.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.2 steals, and shot 37% from three (3.5 3PA p/g). Those stats were good enough to win him PAC-12 6th man of Year last season.
Here’s my breakdown of his game:
- Electric speed and quickness with the ball. Helps him get to the rim easily and makes him a huge threat in transition.
- With that speed, comes a little volatility. Had nearly a 2-to-1 assist to turnover ratio but plays out of control at times, and that can lead to some turnovers or bad shots.
- Really solid passer. Gets past perimeter defenders with ease and is as much of a threat to score as he is to pass.
- His combination of quickness and arm length makes him a great on-ball defender. He does a good job of keeping his man in front of him, and he’s always a threat to pick a players pocket.
- Really nice three point shooter, especially off the catch. Does a good job of moving off of the ball to get open.
- Savir Wheeler played a lot for UW last season, so Johnson was playing as a two-guard mainly, but I think he has the handles, quickness, and passing ability to be a score first point guard.
- EVERYWHERE on the defensive end. He’s always looking to get a quick steal if someone penetrates near him, and he’s always flying around trying to get a defensive rebound or loose ball.
Johnson visited Louisville over the weekend and got to see the fireworks firsthand. It looks like him and Evansville big Ben Humrichous took a visit together.
Koren Johnson was down to five schools back in late March, with Louisville not being included, but he re-opened his recruitment on April 10. Since then, Louisville seems to be the only school Johnson has visited.
Johnson will be a great fit in Kelsey’s system that prefers threes and shots at the rim. He will also do well on the defensive end where Kelsey wants to pressure the ballhandler and be up in the passing lane. Huge pickup for the Cards, as they get the another guard on the roster.
Aly Khalifa – C, BYU
What many once assumed was UK trying to get a transfer win over Louisville has now turned into the fifth portal addition to the new look Cardinals.
Aly Khalifa spent the last season dazzling Mormons with his point-center skills. Standing at 6-10, 255 lb. Khalifa posses a set of skills that is rarely ever seen for a man his size. Khalifa had a down year this season, compared to his sophomore season with the Charleston, but I think a lot of that can be attributed to nagging knee injury he will assumedly be having surgery on over the offseason.
Last season, Khalifa put up 5.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and FOUR ASSISTS a game. He also shot 32% from three on more than three attempts per game. In his prior, healthier year at Charlotte Khalifa’s stat line was much more impressive: 11.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists. while shooting 38% from three (3.7 3PA p/g).
I mean… watch those highlights and tell me that doesn’t get you excited. Khalifa is a solid screen setter, a reliable three point shooter, and an elite playmaker. All three of those things play perfectly into what Pat Kelsey wants from his big men. Here is my breakdown of his game:
- Point center is the perfect term for his offensive game. When Khalifa was in, they were quite often running their offense through him. Incredible court vision and creativity as a passer.
- Quick and reliable three point shot. Huge threat on the perimeter to shoot or make a quick pass to an open shooter.
- A brick wall of a screen setter. Prefers to pick and pop, rather than pick and roll. His lack of athleticism makes him much less effective in a roll situation.
- Speaking of a lack of athleticism… Khalifa is not fleet of foot at all. He does a good job of holding position in the post, but he is a liability if he gets switched on a guard or has to play transition defense.
- Did not play a lot of minutes for a starter. Khalifa started almost every game for BYU this year, but he only averaged 19.4 MPG. He did play nearly 30 minutes a game in the year prior, so I’m not sure if this was because of conditioning, the knee injury, or just the coaches rotation decision.
All-in-all, Khalifa is the perfect addition for Kelsey. Khalifa is Egyptian, so he cannot accept any NIL, so to get this skilled of a player for free is amazing. It stinks that Khalifa will have to redshirt next season, but a year of getting his knee right and improving his conditioning could lead to an incredible 2025 season.
J’Vonne Hadley – G/F, Colorado
NEW COMMIT ALERT!! This time, it’s a top-50 rated transfer player that nearly helped the Buffaloes to their first Sweet 16 in nearly 15 years.
J’Vonne Hadley spent his freshman season in the CAA at Northeastern, playing sparingly, then transferred to Colorado where he has spent his last two seasons. Year one in Boulder saw Hadley start more than half of his games, but year two is when he really came into the player he is.
Hadley started all 36 games for the Buffaloes last year, and he averaged 11.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.4 assists. He also shot nearly 54% from the field, above 40% from three (1.3 3PA p/g) and just less than 85% from the free three line, while adding in more than a steal each game. Hadley has a do it all mentality and can affect the game in a wide variety of ways.
It was announced last week Hadley had cut his list of schools down to just Louisville and USC, with a decision coming on April 16.
And on that same day, Coach Kelsey is sent out a cryptic tweet.
Just a few hours after that Tweet, Hadley made it official.
Here is my breakdown of Hadley’s game:
- An extremely versatile player. Can handle the ball, shoot the three, drive into the lane, facilitate for others, rebound, and guard.
- More of a jack of all trades. I wouldn’t say he’s elite at one thing, but he can help you out in any way and in every single stat column. Reminds me of a Dwayne Sutton type player.
- Pass first player. Will swing the ball if he doesn’t have an advantage and is always looking to pass the ball when he attacks the rim.
- Not a great athlete. Won’t often go 1-on-1 and blow past a defender, but he will attack when he has an advantage.
- Really mature player. Doesn’t force shots. Attacks when he has an advantage on the defense but is passive at times.
- Solid defender. Can guard 1-4 on defense. I wouldn’t call him a lockdown defender, but he does a good job staying in front of his defender and is almost always in the right position.
- Solid three point shooter (40%+ from three), but its almost always on an open spot up shot. Won’t create three point shots very often off the dribble.
- Crafty finisher at the rim. Doesn’t posses elite athleticism, so he won’t often finish over a defender, but he does a great job using his body and the rim to when attacking the rim.
Hadley is the type of player that can play with anyone and help in any way the team needs it. He won’t ever be the most talented, or go to guy on the floor, but he’ll make everyone else on the court better. Surround him with talent, and this team will thrive.
Terrence Edwards, Jr. – G/F, James Madison
There’s no better name to start with than this year’s reigning Sun Belt Player of the Year, Terrence Edwards Jr.
The 6-6 wing lead the Dukes to an incredible 32-4 record last season, including an upset win over 5-seed Wisconsin in the Round of 64.
Edwards was one of the best players on one of the best Mid-Major programs in all of college basketball scoring 17.2 Points, 4.4 Rebounds, and 3.4 Assists per game. Edwards also shot 34.3% from three this year, but was a 46% three point shooter in the year prior. Edwards is currently ranked as the 57th best player in the transfer portal via On3 and is ranked as the 40th best player by 24/7 Sports.
It was a two team race to land Edwards, with the Cards battling against ACC rival Florida State. Edwards visited Louisville on April 3, and secured a commitment from him less than six hours later.
I truly don’t think there are 20 better players in the portal, let alone 40+. Edwards has strong handles, a solid three point shot, a strong mid-range game, enough quickness to get past his defender, and enough length on defense to be solid. He does struggle on defense, at times, as he’s often standing too upright on and off the ball, and he oftentimes seems disinterested in blocking out or grabbing rebounds, but these are things coaching can fix. Cards fans should be THRILLED about this addition.
Landing a player of Edwards’ caliber gets this transfer portal class started off with a BANG. His ability to score at all three levels, play-make, and defend will bring a huge lift to the Cardinals next season and gives us a great foundation to build with the remaining 9+ scholarships Pat Kelsey has to divvy out.
Reyne [Rain] Smith – G, Charleston
I know the name might not be huge, but I think the production will be. Bringing in a player with three years of experience and impressive production under Coach Kelsey will be huge. I liken it to what we did with Jack Plummer in year one under Coach Brohm, except less mid.
Reyne Smith was an unranked recruit out of Australia in the Class of 2021, but he’s been a double digit scorer and three point specialist since he arrived on campus. Smith has shot at least seven threes per game and shot above 34% in each year, with his best shooting season coming last year when he shot 39.4% from three on a ridiculous 8.1 attempts per game.
Smith is truly a three point specialist, but that’s not all he brings to the table. He’s also a solid ball handler and play maker. He averaged just less than two assists per game last season, but his better than 2 to 1 assist to turnover ratio shows he can be trusted with the ball in his hand.
Smith is obviously the ideal player to be in Coach Kelsey’s system. He’s got a lighting fast release, incredible range that will keep the defense glued to him, and a willingness to move off the ball and pass to open shooters.
After watching quite a few Charleston games, I’d say Smith is an average defender. He doesn’t produce a ton of turnovers, and has blocked just two shots in his career, but he does a good job of playing fundamental defense where he stays in front of his man. I’ve also seen him draw a couple of charges, as well.
Smith may only be ranked as the 169th best player in the transfer portal, but I think he’s a great pickup for Louisville; especially with his ability to help new players better understand the offensive and defensive system Coach Kelsey wants to run.
James Scott – F/C, Charleston
Now we move to the lesser known, but higher upside Charleston transplant, James Scott.
Scott came to Charleston last season as a player ranked outside of the Top-200 in the class of 2023, but his length, athleticism, and defensive impact forced Coach Kelsey to play him significant minutes in his first season.
Scott played 16 minutes a game last year, and was the backup center for Coach Kelsey. He shot a staggering 79% from the field last season, thanks to him basically trying to dunk every time he shot.
But what is most impressive about Scott is what he can do on the defensive side of the ball. Scott averaged 1.3 blocks per game (IN JUST 16 MINUTES). Give him a standard 30 minutes played, and he’s averaging right around 2.5 blocks per game.
Having a rim protector like Scott will be huge in Kelsey’s system. The guards will be aggressive on the ball and will almost always be playing in the passing lanes off the ball. That’s great for making offenses uncomfortable and forcing turnovers, but that also means there will be a lot of opportunities for opposing offenses to get to the basket. Having a guy like Scott to protect the rim on those plays will be huge.
Scott’s offensive game is pretty limited. He’s quicker than most 5’s, and his athleticism allows him to try to dunk almost everything and be a lob threat. He has also impressed me with his court vision. He’s very willing to kick it out to a shooter if the defense has collapsed too much onto him.
His game outside of 5-feet was pretty non-existent last season, and he was just a 44% free throw shooter in his freshman year, but he’ll potentially have three seasons at Louisville to expand that part of his game. I think it’d also be great if he could throw on 20 more pounds to allow him to take more contact in the paint.
In year one at Louisville, I believe Scott will play a similar role to what he did at Charleston, a backup big that provides solid interior defense, an ability to run the court, and finish at the rim, but it’s his potential junior and senior season that should have fans most excited.
Editor’s note: This will be updated with new transfer targets and commitments.
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