The poll results are in: Here’s a closer look at No. 11 Louisville.
11. LOUISVILLE
2025-26 record: 24-11
Outlook for 2026-27: Pat Kelsey has brought legitimacy back to Louisville but has just one NCAA Tournament win through two seasons to show for it. This is his best roster yet, with Final Four potential.
What we like: The Cardinals went big in the transfer portal, bringing in center Flory Bidunga (the No. 1 overall transfer) from Kansas, guard Jackson Shelstad from Oregon and guard Seth Trimble from North Carolina, along with two other transfers. It’s a deeply talented group and a real test of whether a team can be built almost entirely through the portal, with just one player, Adrian Wooley, returning from the 2025-26 roster.
Trouble ahead: Trimble and Northern Kentucky transfer LJ Wells had to fight for their eligibility in court this offseason. The NCAA’s request for an emergency stay was denied Friday, allowing both players to remain eligible for now, although the NCAA continues to challenge the ruling.
Top newcomer: Bidunga is a game-changer at both ends of the court. He was named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year last season at Kansas, leading the conference in blocks (91), the fourth-highest total nationally. He also averaged 13.3 points and 9.0 rebounds per game.